Boxing: Povetkin fights for title shot
Published 12 June, 2008, 14:40
The International Boxing Federation's top fighter, Russia’s Aleksandr Povetkin, faces Taurus ‘The Bull’ Sykes from New York on July 19. At stake is a chance for a shot at the world heavyweight title, currently held by Uk
Povetkin, aka “The Russian Knight”, turned pro only three years ago shortly after winning Olympic gold in Sydney. Since then, his career has been on a near vertical climb.
The 28-year-old has won all 15 of his fights, 11 by knockout.
The boxer and his management think the time has come to challenge Wladimir Klitschko for his world title. If all goes according to plan, the bout will take place in November.
But before that he will have to defeat Taurus “The Bull” Sykes from Brooklyn.
Povetkin believes this will be an interesting fight.
“Every time I step into the ring, I'm calm and only think about winning. This fight is more like a practice ahead of the bout against Klitschko. The fight's in my hometown so support will be huge,” he said.
Some observers consider Povetkin's title dreams premature and suggest he needs more experience. But the Russian Knight believes he is up for it.
He wants to take away Klitschko’s title while the Ukrainian is still in top form. But he will have to work on his defence and watch out for that long jab Klitschko is known for.
The fight against Taurus Sykes is scheduled for July 19 at Olimpyskiy Sports Palace, in the town of Chekhov in the Moscow region, where Povetkin has trained since childhood.
Vladimir Khryunov, the boxer’s manager, says they are looking forward to a fight against Klitschko.
“Our preparation methods include more than just training. I'm not only talking about the political aspect of it. We're also being sly about what we show to the public. Believe me, everyone's in for a surprise,” he said.
Before he reveals that surprise, Povetkin must defeat the American fighter.
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