by David P. Greisman

Former lightweight contender Graham Earl has been sentenced in seven years in prison for his role in a cocaine distribution ring, according to British newspaper the Leighton Buzzard Observer.

Earl “was one of five men who worked for prolific drugs dealer Christopher Collins,” the report said.

The 36-year-old turned pro in 1997 and won his first 22 fights before dropping a decision to future titleholder Ricky Burns in 2005. Two years later, Earl was part of a highly entertaining five-round loss to Michael Katsidis. Later in 2007, Earl was blown out in 72 seconds by Amir Khan, then lost in 69 seconds to Henry Castle in late 2008. He ended that three-fight losing streak with a points win in June 2009 over a 16-125-7 opponent named Karl Taylor, then stepped away from the ring.

Talk ultimately turned to a potential rematch with Katsidis, though some were worried about whether Earl should even be allowed to fight anymore. The rematch eventually happened in July 2014, with Katsidis taking a wide unanimous decision. Earl was then stopped in 10 rounds last August by the 9-4-1 Steve Martin, dropping his record to 26-6 with 12 KOs.

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