Lennox: Give Audley time to prove his worth

Lennox Lewis today pleaded with the public to have patience with Audley Harrison after the Olympic champion won the first title of his professional career.

Lewis was at Wembley Arena to see heavyweight Harrison extend his unbeaten record to 15 fights with a comprehensive fourth round stoppage of Dutchman Richel Hersisia.

Harrison's reward was the belt belonging to the World Boxing Foundation, a prize that is hardly worth the leather from which it is produced.

Of greater significance was the manner in which the 32-year-old Londoner overcame early timidity to send an opponent, previously unbeaten in 21 bouts, crashing.

Lewis said: "Audley was the best amateur in the world But he's not yet the best professional in the world. He takes a lot of stick but that's unfair.

"Audley needs time to learn his craft. Beating Hersisia catapults him up the European rankings and in a year's time he should definitely be in the world's top 10."

Harrison is next set to fight at a British venue on 8 May.