Fenech defends Horn from headbutt claims

Jeff Fenech reckons there’s an easy way for Gary Corcoran to take advantage if the bullish Brit really thinks Jeff Horn is a serial headbutter.

Hit him.

“Every time he puts his head in, hit him with an uppercut, finish with a hook at put his head back up,” Fenech said.

The former three-division world champion believes Corcoran’s camp is playing a “mind game” with Horn’s corner by airing allegations of foul play at Monday’s fiery pre-fight press conference in Brisbane.

Corcoran’s co-trainer Frank Greaves said Horn was a “dirty” boxer and played a compilation video of instances the 29-year-old former schoolteacher has led with his head across his 18 career fights.

Horn’s trainer Glenn Rushton strenuously denied the claims and said the London-based Irish Traveller was already looking for excuses.

Fenech admitted he did the same thing as Horn but said it was all within the rules.

“That’s just Jeff’s way of getting in close. It’s not illegal. I did it all my career,” he said.

“I don’t see anything wrong with it. If they’ve watched it on video enough, there’s a way to throw some punches to your advantage.

“Every time he leans down, throw an uppercut and a hook after it and pivot out of there.

“That’s what I’d be telling my fighter if that was the case instead of worrying about headbutting him.”

Both sides intend to meet with New York referee Benjy Esteves Jr before the bout to address the claims.

Greaves is demanding a level playing field: if Horn is allowed to headbutt, so too is Corcoran.

“I’m sure there won’t be a problem with that,” Fenech said.

“The difference is Jeff’s not trying to headbutt, he’s just leading with his head. If he does that and Gary headbutts it’s a different thing.”

Horn said the allegations annoyed him.

“They’re making a big deal about it,” he said.

“They obviously want the referee to be watching it.

“I’m never going to deliberately come in there and smack my head against someone. It’s stupid, why would I be smacking my face up?”

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