The Write Hook

By Ciaran Shanks

IF you didn't see Shannon Briggs crash land in the UK last week I'd be surprised if you didn't at least hear him.

After causing mayhem across the States and Germany, the loud-mouthed but always entertaining American has set his sights on Britain’s top heavyweights after arriving in the UK on a one-way ticket (seriously).

Briggs has become a social media phenomenon with his almost endless stalking of Wladimir Klitschko for a shot at the-then world king, challenging him at his gym, in restaurants and even at sea while barking “Let's go champ!” endlessly.

For readers unfamiliar with Briggs, the New Yorker is a two-time world heavyweight champion who last fought at world level in 2010.

But after a long hiatus Briggs, now 44, is back and in the shape of his life – which would put men 20 years his junior to shame.

With Klitschko toppled by Tyson Fury, the man nicknamed “The Cannon” wants to fight Fury, David Haye or Anthony Joshua.

Briggs' arrival on this side of the Atlantic would put Muhammad Ali to shame – mixing with tourists outside Buckingham Palace, demanding entry to Haye’s gym, the footage had me in stitches.

Many are still laughing at the New Yorker’s hi-jinks but Britain’s top promoter is taking him much more seriously.

Eddie Hearn held a meeting with Briggs last week which could see him fight – wait for it – on the Ricky Burns undercard in Glasgow on May 28. That's a prospect that excites me and bemuses many.

Matchroom boss Hearn is smart enough to know how to promote Briggs, his profile on social media is impressive.

But many have argued that Briggs is washed up and is simply trying to talk himself into one last payday.

Since returning to the ring in 2014, Briggs – who incredibly has 36 first-round knockouts to his name – has toppled numerous journeymen to keep busy.

However, any top contenders are still wary of the threat Briggs poses.

His world-class pedigree, punching power and even his new-found, almost contagious, determination would cause problems for most heavyweights.

Of Britain’s three top heavyweights, Haye is the most likely of opponents.

Talks are reportedly ongoing between parties with the Londoner still to confirm his opponent for his fight on May 21.

That would scupper any chance of Briggs fighting in Scotland – I don't know if I could handle that disappointment.

This isn't a flying visit to see the sights, Shannon Briggs is here to stay for time being.

Yes he's outrageous, regularly shirtless and nearing middle age but he deserves respect for his in-ring achievements.

I'm right behind him in his quest for one last shot at glory.

All together now...let’s go champ!