Nicolson criticizes Brown for handshake snub before fight

Skye Nicolson has criticized her opponent, Tiara Brown, for being "disrespectful" after Brown refused to shake hands during a press conference. Nicolson is set to defend her WBC featherweight title against the undefeated Brown in Sydney on Saturday. This fight marks Nicolson's first championship bout on her home turf. Tensions rose during their encounter when Brown took Nicolson's title belt without permission and continued to verbally spar before rejecting the handshake. Nicolson remarked that she views Brown’s actions as a sign of nervousness. She also pointed out that good sportsmanship should be maintained, regardless of the pre-fight hype. Earlier, Brown claimed it would be “impossible” for Nicolson to last the full 10 rounds. Nicolson, however, is prepared for a tough fight but does not expect it to be her hardest. She has trained extensively and believes she can win decisively. Another Australian champion, Cherneka Johnson, will also be fighting on the same card against Nina Hughes. Johnson wants to win her rematch convincingly after a close decision victory last year. Both fighters expressed excitement about fighting on home soil together, as they have a long history from their amateur days.