Turkish top prospect Avni Yildirim is convinced that WBO Super Middleweight Champion Arthur Abraham will defend his title against Robert Stieglitz this Saturday in Halle / Westfalen. “He is in good shape”, said Yildirim after sparring with “King Arhur” last week in Berlin. “Abraham is very experienced but he doesn’t seem to be very hungry anymore. He is more of a business man than a fighter. He wants to make money and he knows that to make even more money he has to beat Stieglitz. I want to thank Arthur Abraham and his trainer Uli Wegner for giving me the chance to do some rounds with the champion. It was a good experience for me. And I think now Abraham knows who Avni Yildirim is and that there is somebody who could take away the belt from him.”

Yildirim is currently fighting at light heavyweight and will try to capture the vacant WBC Silver International Championship on August 15th in Miami, Florida, when he takes on veteran Glen Johnson. Even though the 23-year-old who has won all of his five pro fights so far feels comfortable at 175 lbs. he considers moving down to 168 lbs. “I can make either weight without any problems”, says Yildirim. “I am more powerful at light heavyweight. But if there are good fights at super middle – for instance against Abraham – I will take them, too.”

Promoter Ahmet Oner is convinced that his newest attraction got what it takes to make it all the way to the top. “I think Avni is the best Turkish fighter I have seen so far”, states Oner. “He is more skilled than Selcuk Aydin and more focused than Sinan Samil Sam. Glen Johnson is an excellent test and a big step-up for him in only his sixth pro fight but I’m sure that he is up for the task.” Oner surely wants his fighter to take the fast lane to the top. Of course, it was the promoter’s idea to let Yildirim spar with Arthur Abraham. “I have had my issues with Sauerland in the past but that’s history. And I always got along well with Uli Wegner. It’s always good to see him. He’s a great coach and I think it was good for Avni to spend some time with him.”

Actions speak louder than words – at least that was the motto at today’s final press conference ahead of the ‘Final Showdown’ between WBO World Super Middleweight Champion Arthur Abraham (42-4, 28 KOs) and Robert Stieglitz (47-4-1, 27 KOs) on Saturday night at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle, Germany.

Summarising the fighter’s fourth world championship contest, promoter Kalle Sauerland put it aptly. ‘’This is not a fight that needs to be hyped,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’You need only look at the first three fights between Arthur and Robert to know what we have in store for Saturday night. I’m expecting another entertaining battle and a fitting end to their epic rivalry.’’

Following their three previous encounters, Abraham holds the advantage, with two wins to one defeat. As the fourth fight approaches, the defending champion made clear his intention to claim a conclusive third victory. ‘’This is the end,’’ said the 35 year-old. ‘’There will be no fifth fight. I’ve trained extremely hard and I’m ready for whatever Robert has to offer. After Saturday, there will be no questions remaining. I will prove once and for all that I’m the better boxer.’’

The challenger from Magdeburg remained unfazed by his opponent’s comments instead renewing his promise to regain the WBO crown. ‘’I know how to beat Arthur and I’m ready to settle the score,’’ said Stieglitz. ‘’In my opinion the verdict from our last fight was unjust, but it’s not about the past. It’s about the here and now, and on Saturday I will become world champion again!’’

Arthur Abraham’s WBO World Super Middleweight title defence against Robert Stieglitz takes place on Saturday, July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle. Tickets are available by calling the Gerry Weber Ticket Centre on (+49) 5201 81 80 or online via http://www.gerryweber-world.de and http://www.tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live on SAT.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK.

Arthur Abraham (42-4, 28 KOs) insists he has all the motivation he needs to end his long-standing feud with domestic rival Robert Stieglitz (47-4-1, 27 KOs) in their fourth WBO World title fight on July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle.

Following a memorable trilogy, Abraham holds the advantage with two wins to one defeat. Now, the 35 year-old champion is aiming for a conclusive third victory as he sets his sights on a super middleweight unification.

‘’The fact that this fight is for the world title gives me all the motivation I need,’’ said Abraham. ‘’Every time I enter the ring, I give up my title, and only become champion again when the final bell sounds and my hand is raised. I must approach every fight with the same desire and will to win, and if I were to think any differently it would be time for me to hang up my gloves.

‘’But I’m not thinking about retirement. I’m world champion and will remain so for the next two to three years until I chose to leave the sport. I have total belief in my skills and my training, and I know I can do everything as well if not better than Stieglitz. My promoter has billed this fight as the ‘Final Showdown’, and that is exactly what it will be. There will be no fifth fight. I will bring this rivalry to a successful conclusion and then look for a unification – that is my goal!’’

Arthur Abraham’s WBO World Super Middleweight title defence against Robert Stieglitz takes place on July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle. Tickets are available by calling the Gerry Weber Ticket Centre on (+49) 5201 81 80 or online via gerryweber-world.de and tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live on SAT.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK.

Germany’s youngest professional boxer, Leon Bauer (1-0, 1 KO) returns to the ring on July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle on the undercard of Arthur Abraham’s WBO World title defence against Robert Stieglitz.

Having got his professional career off to a flying start with the first-round destruction of Kristof Mate, the 16 year-old super middleweight can expect a tougher test in his second paid outing against Misa Nikolic (20-35-2, 9 KOs) – a 37 year-old, 57 fight-veteran, who is old enough to be Bauer’s father.

‘’We‘ve heard a lot about Leon and we’re excited to see how he performs on the big stage against such an experienced opponent,’’ said promoter Kalle Sauerland.

As an amateur, Bauer won both regional and national junior championships, and had been tipped to join Germany’s Olympic team hoping to qualify for Rio 2016. However the young fighter had plans of his own, and having received special dispensation earlier this year, begun his professional career with one goal in sight. ‘’I want to become world champion,’’ declared the teenage talent.

One man with no doubts in the Hatzenbühl-boxer’s ability is coach and father Bernd Bauer, who is expecting his son to impress: ‘’I would not send my son into the ring if I was not one hundred per cent convinced by his talents.’’

Bauer joins fellow teenage star Vincent Feigenbutz in action on July 18. The 19 year-old Feigenbutz, who also made his professional bow at the age of 16, will be challenging for Interim WBA World Super Middleweight title against Mauricio Reynoso.

Manager Rainer Gottwald, who is credited with discovering both fighters, is confident Bauer can follow in Feigenbutz’s footsteps and take the super middleweight division by storm. ‘’Leon is a boxing gem,’’ said Gottwald. ‘’He has everything needed to become a great champion!’’

Tickets for Abraham-Stieglitz IV featuring Feigenbutz’s Interim WBA World title challenge and Bauer’s second professional contest are on sale now and available by calling the GERRY WEBER Ticket Centre on +49 (0) 5201 81 80, or online via gerryweber-world.de and tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live and exclusive in Germany on SAT.1 and on Sky Sports in the UK.

With only 17 days to go before Arthur Abraham (42-4, 28 KOs) locks horns with Robert Stieglitz (47-4-1, 27 KOs) in their fourth WBO World Super Middleweight title contest, the champion and his coach Ulli Wegner, yesterday, opened the doors to their training camp at the Olympic Centre in Kienbaum, Germany.

Talking to the media in attendance, Wegner revealed his pleasure at ‘King’ Arthur’s preparations. ‘’Our training has gone better than expected,’’ said the 73 year-old coach. ‘’Arthur has even been sending cruiserweights to the canvas in sparring. Stieglitz has no hope. He knows only one tactic, and that’s just to come forward. Arthur is superior to him in every respect. That’s why I expect a clear victory on July 18. Anything else would be a disaster.’’

Wegner’s confidence is shared by Abraham who is promising a conclusive finish to his fourth encounter with Stielglitz.‘’I have already beaten him twice, and in our second fight I was beaten by injury,’’ said the 35 year-old champion. ‘’I can guarantee that the fourth fight will be our last. Robert throws a lot of punches, but he has no killer blow. Although I cannot promise a KO, I will leave the audience in no doubt over who the better boxer is.’’

As an added incentive Wegner has given his fighter the following ultimatum: ‘’If Arthur loses this fight, it’s over!’’ Revealing that should he lose the star coach would leave his pupil and advise him to hang up his gloves. To which, Abraham declared: ‘’I will not lose! I plan on continuing my career for at least another two years and then retiring along with my coach and my world championship belt.’’

Arthur Abraham’s WBO World Super Middleweight title defence against Robert Stieglitz takes place on July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle. Tickets are available by calling the Gerry Weber Ticket Centre on (+49) 5201 81 80 or online via gerryweber-world.de and tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live on SAT.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK.

‘’Everything is going according to plan,’’ says Ulli Wegner, the man charged with getting Arthur Abraham (42-4, 28 KOs) in optimum condition for his fourth WBO World Championship fight with super middleweight rival Robert Stieglitz (47-4-1, 27 KOs) on July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle.

Wegner has spent the last two weeks on the beach with Abraham, but far from holidaymaking, the legendary trainer and his star pupil have been undergoing an intensive training camp on the German island of Usedom.

After fourteen days of sun, sea and serious training, the 73 year-old coach believes Abraham is on course to defend his WBO World title. ‘’Everything is going according to plan,’’ reveals Wegner. ‘’After his last fight, Arthur put his feet up and had too much of a good time, but since being back in training he has worked his butt off.

‘’I’ve been pleased with his progress in Usedom and now we travel to the Olympic Centre in Kienbaum to complete our preparations. Arthur knows what is at stake, he knows this fight demands his full attention and on July 18 he will be ready!”

In between training sessions in Usedom, Abraham had been keeping his mind occupied by following Roger Federer’s progress at the Gerry Weber Open. Here the defending champion successfully retained his title in the same arena Abraham will frequent on July 18. ‘’I had been watching and supporting Federer in the breaks between our morning and afternoon session,’’ said ‘King Arthur’. ‘’For me it is a good omen that he won as I intend to the exact same thing against Stieglitz!’’

Tickets for Abraham vs. Stieglitz IV are available by calling the Gerry Weber Ticket Centre on (+49) 5201 81 80 or online via gerryweber-world.de and tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live on SAT.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK.

Vincent Feigenbutz (19-1, 18 KOs) will face Mauricio Reynoso (15-1-1, 11 KOs) for the Interim WBA World Super Middleweight Championship as chief support for Arthur Abraham’s fourth WBO World title fight with Robert Stieglitz on July 18 at the GERRY WEBER STADIUM in Halle, Germany.

Feigenbutz gets his first shot at world glory when he takes on the Peruvian-puncher Reynoso, and the 19 year-old KO specialist aims to prove he is ready for global domination by becoming the youngest German fighter to claim a version of the world title.

‘’Since I started my professional career, I have said that my goal is to become world champion,’’ said Feigenbutz. ‘’Many people laughed at me and said I would never achieve this, but on July 18, I will prove all these people wrong and show I have what it takes to become the next world champion.’’

To ensure he is in peak physical condition, the boxer from Karlsruhe will be travelling to the Slovenian mountains to undertake an intensive training camp. ‘’The mountains provide the ideal training conditions for Vince,’’ reveals Feigenbutz’s manager Rainer Gottwald. ‘’He will be in top shape on July 18 and ready to announce himself on to the world scene.’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘’Vince is a phenomenal athlete. At just 19 years of age he has already worked his way to the top of the division. On July 18, he can cement his position by becoming the WBA Interim World Champion. A victory is never enough for Vince, he wants to knock his opponents out, and this guarantees excitement for the fans at the Gerry Weber Stadium.’’

Tickets for Abraham-Stieglitz IV featuring Feigenbutz’s Interim WBA World title challenge are on sale now and available by calling the GERRY WEBER Ticket Centre on +49 (0) 5201 81 80, or online via http://www.gerryweber-world.de and http://www.tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live and exclusive in Germany on SAT.1 and on Sky Sports in the UK.

Arthur Abraham (42-4, 28 KOs) has vowed to bring an end to his feud with domestic rival Robert Stieglitz (47-4-1, 27 KOs) when the German super middleweights contest the WBO World title for a fourth time on July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle.

The fighters began their now familiar pre-fight routine with a kick-off press conference today, in which the reigning champion promised to provide a conclusive finish to their long-standing rivalry. ‘’Four fights with Robert is enough for me,’’ declared Abraham. ‘’Of course, victory is always the most important thing, but on July 18, I don’t just want to win, I want to win decisively and prove once and for all that I am the better man!’’

Abraham holds the advantage, having triumphed in two of their three previous encounters, but while ‘King Arthur’ eyes a conclusive third victory, Stieglitz aims to settle the score with a second win over the Berlin-based boxer. ‘’I have analysed all three of our fights in detail,’’ reveals Stieglitz. ‘’With the right tactical adjustments, I have no doubt that this time I will be victorious!’’

Ahead of their anticipated fourth encounter, Abraham’s coach Ulli Wegner has compared July 18’s battle with Germany’s most heated soccer rivalry. ‘’This is ‘Der Klassiker’,’’ declared the 73 year-old. ‘’The Bayern Munich vs. Borussia Dortmund of German boxing! Just like Munich vs. Dortmund, this great rivalry always promises excitement! Arthur must enter the ring in top condition or risk losing his position at the top of the super middleweight division.’’

Stieglitz’s coach Dirk Dzemski shares Wegner’s excitement, predicting a ‘’spectacular fight’’ at the Gerry Weber Stadium. ‘’This fight will be on a knife’s edge,’’ said Dzemski. ‘’Both boxers know how hard it will be to beat the other and fans can look forward to a spectacular fight. Arthur had better be well prepared because we’re ready for it!’’

Tickets for the ‘Final Showdown’ Abraham vs. Stieglitz IV are available by calling the Gerry Weber Ticket Centre on (+49) 5201 81 80 or online via www.gerryweber-world.de and www.tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live on SAT.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK.

Arthur Abraham (42-4, 28 KOs) is set to reignite his feud with super middleweight rival Robert Stieglitz (47-4-1, 27 KOs) on July 18 at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle, Germany. The boxers meet for a fourth time, with the WBO crown on the line, following a memorable trilogy of world championship fights.

‘’The battle for super middleweight supremacy continues,’’ said promoter Kalle Sauerland. ‘’I’m hard pressed to think of any other trilogy in modern boxing history that has provided such a high level of drama. For that reason, we go again. On July 18, for an unprecedented fourth time, Arthur and Robert will contest the WBO super middleweight title.’’

Abraham and Stieglitz first met in August 2012, where a points decision earned Abraham the WBO strap. In a March 2013 rematch, Stieglitz got his revenge with a fourth-round technical knockout victory. The belt once again changed hands in March 2014 with Abraham flooring Stieglitz on his way to a split decision win. The stage is now set for a fourth battle between ‘King Arthur’ and his mandatory challenger Stieglitz at Germany’s famous Gerry Weber Stadium.

For the defending champion Abraham, July 18 offers him the opportunity to write the final chapter in his rivalry with Stieglitz. ‘’Robert is mandatory challenger, so of course he deserves his shot,’’ said Abraham. ‘’I’ve enjoyed our rivalry, but like all good things, this must come to an end. The Gerry Weber Stadium will provide the perfect venue for me to finish our feud. I had Robert down in the twelfth-round of our last encounter, but this time he will hit the canvas a lot sooner!’’

Tickets for Abraham-Stieglitz IV are on sale now and available by calling the GERRY WEBER Ticket Centre on +49 (0) 5201 81 80, or online via gerryweber-world.de and tickethall.de. All the action will be shown live and exclusive in Germany on SAT.1 and on Sky Sports in the UK.

Ulli Wegner is one of Europe’s most successful boxing coaches. A legendary figure in his native Germany, the 73 year-old has guided six fighters to world titles, including the undefeated former IBF and WBA (Super) Super Middleweight Champion Sven Ottke and the current WBO Super Middleweight king Arthur Abraham.

The latest prospect to receive Wegner’s golden touch is former amateur world champion Jack Culcay, who on Saturday night can bring the coach his seventh world title success when he faces Maurice Weber for the Interim WBA Light Middleweight belt.

‘’Jack is a diamond in the rough,’’ said Wegner. ‘’With the skills he has, I have no doubt that he will follow in the footsteps of our other great German champions. But like all diamonds, he just needs a little polishing!’’

The secret of success for Wegner is simple. The master-trainer possesses an unrelenting drive to succeed, which he demands his boxers reciprocate. ‘’I have always had the desire to do special things and to be successful,’’ states Wegner. ‘’The fighters I train must share this desire, if not they are destined to fail.’’

With his many fighters, the coach has always shared a special relationship – a mixture of father, teacher and dictator. ‘’Without authority there is nothing,’’ insists Wegner. ‘’The fighters must respect you and listen to your every word. But confidence is just as important, so you must also be there to advise and support them.’’

Ahead of his world championship challenge, Wegner new protégé Culcay has heaped praise on the experienced coach. ‘’As a professional I have trained with many coaches, all of whom have helped with my development from the amateur ranks.’’ said the 29 year-old. ‘’But since I’ve been working with Mr Wegner everything has started to fall into place. Mr Wegner and his team have rekindled my passion for the sport, and I now know I have the right man in my corner to take me to the top.’’

On Saturday night, the master and pupil will face their toughest test when ‘Golden Jack’ (19-1, 10 KOs) meets Maurice Weber (21-1-1, 8 KOs) for the Interim WBA World Light Middleweight title at the Festhalle in Frankfurt, Germany.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, WBO Super Middleweight champion Arthur Abraham will meet Robert Stieglitz for a 4th time most likely in July.

Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28 KOs) and Paul Smith (35-4, 20 KOs) both made weight today ahead of their WBO World Super Middleweight Championship rematch on Saturday night at the O2 World in Berlin, Germany. The fighters took to the scales in front of raucous crowd of close to thousand German and British fans at the capital’s famous Berlin Mall.

Full list of weights below:

WBO World Super Middleweight Championship:
Arthur Abraham: 76.1 kg
Paul Smith: 75.1 kg

WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Championship:
Enrico Koelling: 78.9 kg
Mirco Ricci: 79.1 kg

Heavyweight – 10 Rounds:
David Price: 114.8 kg
Irineu Beato Costa Junior: 119.5 kg

Heavyweight – 6 Rounds:
Burak Sahin: 105.5 kg
Maksym Pediura: 107 kg

Super Middleweight – 6 Rounds:
Stefan Haertel: 76.2 kg
Baptiste Castegnaro: 75.5 kg

Cruiserweight – 8 Rounds:
Noel Gevor: 90.8 kg
Alejandro Emilio Valori: 90.8 kg

Featherweight – 6 Rounds:
Josh Warrington: 58 kg
Edwin Tellez: 56 kg

Judgement Day: Abraham vs. Smith II is available to watch live on Sat.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. Limited tickets are still available to buy via tickethall.de

Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28 KOs) and Paul Smith (35-4, 20 KOs) came face-to-face at today’s final press conference ahead of their WBO World Super Middleweight Championship rematch on Saturday night at the O2 World in Berlin, Germany.

‘’I know what I need to do,’’ announced the reigning WBO Champion Arthur Abraham. ‘’On Saturday night, I will get the job done. My hand will be raised and the title will remain round my waist!

‘’Smith fought well in our last fight, but can he do it again? I’ve trained harder this time round. I’m in better shape and will show my true potential. He is going to be in for a tough night. I can’t promise a knockout, but I can promise that I will do everything in my power to give the fans a spectacular finish.’’

The challenger, Smith is taking confidence from their first encounter and is also promising an improved performance as he attempts to dethrone ‘King Arthur’ in their world championship rematch.

‘’I’m ready and willing to do whatever it takes to get the win,’’ said Smith. ‘’I’m fit, I’m strong and I‘ve sparred very well. I know I‘ve got what it takes to defeat him. Abraham can be fitter and stronger this time around, any fighter can do that, but he cannot add anymore strings to his bow, he’s not that type of fighter, that type of man or that type in the gym. What he does is incredibly effective, it’s won him many, many World title fights and I respect him massively, but there’s not going to be anything new from him. I’m here to crash the party and prove I belong at the top!’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘’Fans can expect another enthralling fight between these two world-class athletes. Arthur is in great shape and is fired up for this WBO World Championship rematch. He wants to beat Smith, and beat him convincingly, as he knows victory will bring him closer to the fights he craves.’’

Judgement Day: Abraham vs. Smith II is available to watch live on Sat.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. Tickets are available via tickethall.de.

On February 21, it’s ‘Judgement Day’ in the German capital! Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28 KOs) takes on Paul Smith (35-4, 20 KOs) in a WBO World Super Middleweight Championship rematch at the O2 World. Alongside the main event, fans can look forward to a stacked undercard showcasing the very best of European boxing.

As previously announced, Enrico Koelling (16-0, 6 KOs) will defend his WBA Light Heavyweight Intercontinental title against Mirco Ricci (13-2, 4 KOs), while British heavyweight star David Price (18-2, 15 KOs) meets Brazilian KO King Irineu Beato Costa Junior (16-2, 14 KOs). Four further fights have now been confirmed for the February 21 show.

Highly rated cruiserweight prospect Noel Gevor (15-0, 9 KOs) will face Emilio Valori (16-6, 12 KOs). Gevor is relishing a return to the ring following his fifth-round stoppage of Tamas Polster in Copenhagen, Denmark. ‘’I was pleased with my performance against Polster,’’ said the 24 year-old. ‘’It was a good experience to fight away from home, but I’m happy to be back fighting in Germany, especially at such an amazing arena!’’

London 2012 Olympian, Stefen Haertel (3-0) meets French super middleweight Baptiste Castegnaro (5-3, 2 KOs). An opponent, Haertel’s coach Karsten Roewer has warned him not to underestimate. ‘’Stefan should not be fooled by his opponents record,’’ said the renowned German coach. ‘’He will be coming to Berlin to cause an upset. Last year, he knocked out a previously unbeaten Italian in his hometown. He will try to do the same to Stefan.’’ Despite these words of warning, Haertel is looking forward to his hometown fight. ‘’All my family and friends from Berlin have bought tickets. I will not let them down,’’ said the 27 year-old.

Another Berlin native, Burak Sahin (5-0, 5 KOs) will look to extend his run of knockout victories when he takes on Ukrainian Maksym Pedyura (14-7, 12 KOs). ‘’This fight could be over quickly,’’ claimed the 23 year-old heavyweight. ‘Don’t blink or you might miss it!’’ Sahin will be making his second appearance at a Team Sauerland show, having impressed with a first-round technical knockout win over Zoltan Jerousek in May.

British-boxer Josh Warrington (19-0, 3 KOs) will have the chance to showcase his skills to the German public. The 24 year-old featherweight, who was until a year ago working as a dental technician, proved his pedigree in his last fight, claiming the European title with the fourth-round stoppage of Davide Dieli. The Leeds-man now appears to be on the fast track to a world title shot. On February 21, Warrington can continue his world title charge when he faces Edwin Tellez (9-11-5, 4 KOs).

Judgement Day: Abraham vs. Smith II is available to watch live on Sat.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. Tickets are available via tickethall.de.

Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28 KOs) has vowed to show Paul Smith (35-4, 20 KOs) no mercy in their WBO World Super Middleweight Championship rematch at the O2 World in Berlin on February 21.

The Berlin-boxer, who was left bemused by the English media’s reaction to their first fight, is ready to leave the decision in no doubt this time, claiming: ”Smith will not hear the final bell!”

‘’I want to make it clear once and for all who the champion is here,’’ said Abraham. ‘’Paul Smith fought well in our last fight, but I was better. As a television commentator Smith is world-class, but as a boxer he is not on my level!

‘’I don’t understand why the English media spoke about a miscarriage of justice. I don’t select the judges and neither do my promoters. However this time, I will relieve the judges of their responsibility. There will be no doubt, I will show no mercy and Smith will not hear the final bell!’’

If any additional motivation is needed for the German champion, it comes in the form of a potential mouth-watering domestic clash with long-time rival Felix Sturm.

‘’I have dreamt of a fight against Felix Sturm for many years,’’ said the 34 year-old. ‘’That would be a huge event in Germany. It has not been possible in the past due to conflicting television partners, but with Team Sauerland’s new cooperation with Sat.1, that dream could soon become a reality. But first, I must defeat Paul Smith on February 21 at the O2 World in Berlin.’’

Judgement Day: Abraham vs. Smith II is available to watch live on Sat.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. British heavyweight star David Price (18-2, 15 KOs) is also in action, he takes on Irineu Beato Costa Junior (16-2, 14 KOs), while rising German star Enrico Koelling (16-0, 6 KOs) defends his WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight title against Mirco Ricci (13-2, 4 KOs). Tickets are available via tickethall.de.

Paul Smith (35-4, 20 KOs) can settle the score with Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28 KOs) in their WBO World Super Middleweight Championship rematch on February 21 at the O2 World in Berlin, Germany.

Smith was left disappointed after finding himself on the wrong end of a unanimous points decision in his first attempt to dethrone the German champion. Although, the 32 year-old is aware he may face an even tougher task in the repeat of their September showdown, he is confident of bringing the belt back to Britain.

‘’I’m extremely confident,’’ said the 32 year-old former British Champion. ‘’I went into the first fight believing I could beat Abraham, this time I go into the fight knowing I can beat him. I know what I am in with now and I’m 100% confident I will win. He won’t be able to rely on the judges this time.

‘’I do believe Abraham will be fitter this time, he will come to fight and that is exactly what I’ve prepared for. I’m certainly fitter and better than last time too, and I‘ve improved technically. The first fight for me was a chance to prove that I belong at world level. Although, I didn’t get the decision, I felt I beat him and I got a massive confidence boost from that. I now know I belong at world level and I know I can mix it with the best.’’

Despite fighting in Abraham’s hometown, Smith will not have to worry about a lack of support. The Liverpudlian brought a travelling army of fans with him to Kiel for their first fight, and is expecting an even better turn out in the German capital.

‘’I’ve already sold more tickets,’’ reveals Smith. ‘’Last time there was the Merseyside football derby, Liverpool vs. Everton on the same day. I have friends who wouldn’t miss a derby for their own mother’s funeral, never mind one of my fights. This time everyone is coming and we will all be celebrating in Berlin after I win!’’

Judgement Day: Abraham vs. Smith II is available to watch live on Sat.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. British heavyweight star David Price (18-2, 15 KOs) is also in action, he takes on Irineu Beato Costa Junior (16-2, 14 KOs), while rising German star Enrico Koelling (16-0, 6 KOs) defends his WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight title against Mirco Ricci (13-2, 4 KOs). Tickets are available via tickethall.de.

Heavyweight sensation David Price (18-2, 15 KOs) is the first huge UK name confirmed for the Abraham-Smith II undercard at the O2 World in Berlin, Germany on February 21.

Price’s addition was announced today at a press conference at the Hilton Hotel in Liverpool, where Arthur Abraham and Paul Smith came face-to-face for a second time this week to promote their WBO World Super Middleweight Championship rematch.

‘’It’s great to be fighting on the undercard of such a big show,’’ said Price. ‘’I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and reminding everyone what I’m all about. 2015 is going to be a big year for me, its important I get off to a good start on February 21.’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘’Next year is going to be David’s time to shine. It’s time to stand up and be counted. The heavyweight scene in the UK is flourishing at the moment, and it is still our belief that Pricey can beat anyone out there.’’

An opponent for Price will be announced shortly. Also confirmed for the February 21 show, are rising German stars Enrico Koelling, Stefan Haertel and Tyron Zeuge. Tickets go on sale on Friday (December 12) at 12.00 (CET) and are available via tickethall.de.

The rematch is on! ‘King’ Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28 KOs) will defend his WBO Super Middleweight crown against Paul Smith (35-4, 20 KOs) on February 21 at the O2 World in Berlin, Germany, in a return of their September showdown in Kiel.

In their first meeting Abraham retained his title with a unanimous points victory over the former British Champion. However, many felt the judges’ scorecards failed to reflect the close encounter, leading to immediate calls for a rematch.

‘’I’m a man of my word,’’ said Abraham. ‘’I promised Paul that I would give him a rematch after our first fight in Kiel. I will honour that promise. However, Paul should be careful what he wishes for. I’ve already beaten him once and this time I plan to win in even more spectacular fashion. On February 21, I will knock him out!’’

‘’Arthur and his trainer said he would stop me in the first fight,’’ said Smith. ‘’We all saw what happened there. It was only with the judges’ help that he beat me. I believe I won the fight. This time, I know I can beat him.’’

‘’We promised Paul the rematch and Arthur was happy to oblige,’’ said promoter Kalle Sauerland. ‘’He is a great champion who has never shied away from a challenge. I’m sure it will be another entertaining fight. Germany vs. England always adds an extra spice to an event. We’re expecting an atmosphere second to none on February 21.’’

Smith’s promoter Eddie Hearn said: ‘’Paul brought fantastic support with him for the first fight, this time, with the controversy and the build up, there is going to be an even bigger following travelling over to Berlin. Paul gave a great account of himself in Kiel. He proved he can operate at world level. Everyone can expect a fantastic fight on February 21.’’

Tickets for the WBO World Super Middleweight Championship clash go on sale Friday (December 12) at 12.00 (CET) and are available via tickethalle.de.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, Paul Smith will not be mandated an immediate rematch clause against WBO Super Middleweight champion Arthur Abraham.

The WBO has denied Smith’s petition for an immediate rematch following a review of the video of their controversial fight Sept. 27 at Sparkassen-Arena in Kiel, Germany.

Smith and Abraham put on a highly competitive fight, with Abraham coming away with a unanimous decision to retain his 168-pound title. But the scores from judges Fernando Laguna (119-109) of Spain, Waleska Roldan (117-110) of New York and Zoltan Enyedi (117-110) of Hungary were roundly criticized because many thought they were way too wide given the back-and-forth nature of the fight.

“First and foremost, I’d like to say that I have a lot of respect for Arthur Abraham,” Smith said. “He is a great champion, and we had a great fight. But I think the judges got it wrong. I’ve been waiting a long time for this opportunity. I just wanted a fair crack at the whip and I don’t think I got that.”

“Of course I would fight Paul again,” Abraham said. “I’m sure it would be another exciting fight. However, the circumstances would need to be right. At the moment, the most interesting fight for me would be [Felix] Sturm or [Robert] Stieglitz.”

King’ Arthur Abraham (41-4, 28 KOs) retained his WBO World Super Middleweight crown with a unanimous points decision against Paul Smith (35-4, 20 KOs) in Kiel, Germany. After twelve rounds of non-stop action in front of a sell-out crowd at the Sparkassen-Arena the judges scored the fight 117-111, 117-111 and 119-109 in favour of the defending champion.

‘’It was a tough fight,’’ said Abraham. ‘’Paul Smith was by no means an easy opponent and he made me work hard for the win. I was pleased with my performance. I feel that I have proved to myself, to my coach Ulli Wegner and to my fans that I still have what it takes. I’m not in decline and I look forward to more successful defences of my WBO title.’’

The challenger Smith more than played his part in a competitive contest and was left disappointed with the judges’ decision. ‘’First and foremost I’d like to say that I have a lot of respect for Arthur Abraham,’’ said the Liverpudlian. ‘’He is a great champion and tonight we had a great fight. But I think the judges got it wrong. I’ve been waiting a long time for this opportunity. I just wanted a fair crack at the whip and I don’t think I got that.’’

There were immediate calls for a rematch by Team Smith. When pressed on the possibility of a return fight ‘King Arthur’ admitted he would be willing to face the British boxer again. ‘’Of course I would fight Paul again,’’ said the Armenian-born German. ‘’I’m sure it would be another exciting fight. However the circumstances would need to be right. At the moment the most interesting fight for me would be Sturm or Stieglitz.’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘’Both fighters played their part in an extremely entertaining fight. I have a lot of respect Paul, his family and his team. He did himself proud tonight. But Arthur has shown yet again that he belongs at the top of the division. A rematch with Paul is a possibility but first we will be looking at the winner of Felix Sturm and Robert Stieglitz.’’

On Saturday night ‘King’ Arthur Abraham (40-4, 28 KOs) defends his WBO World Super Middleweight crown against former British Champion Paul Smith (35-3, 20 KOs) in Kiel, Germany.

At today’s final press conference the WBO Champion revealed his future is bound to that of his legendary coach Ulli Wegner and made clear his plan to prove his worth by stopping Smith at the Sparkassen-Arena. ‘’When Mr Wegner decides to call time on his career, I will follow him,’’ said Abraham. ‘’I wouldn’t want to train with anyone else. On Saturday it is my job to show him that there is still much more we can achieve together. I will do this by beating Smith in style.’’

‘’Arthur has the ability to beat anyone in his weight class,’’ said Abraham’s 72 year-old coach Wegner. ‘’He just needs to live up to his potential. The most important thing for him to do is follow my instructions. If he listens to what I tell him the fight won’t go the distance, he will knock Paul Smith out!’’

Smith will be counting on the support of his 2,000 travelling fans when he attempts to cause an upset by dethroning ‘King Arthur’ on his home turf. ‘’This is my first and last chance to become World Champion,’’ said Smith. ‘’I will not let this opportunity slip through my hands. I have had the best training camp ever and my coach Joe Gallagher has devised the perfect game plan. Now it is up to me. I’m going to grab this opportunity and the title with both hands!’’

‘’Arthur is a tough nut to crack,’’ said Smith’s coach Gallagher. ‘’But Paul has reached new levels in training and I believe he has the power to force an early stoppage. There are going to be fireworks from the first bell to the last. This could well be a contender for fight of the year.’’

The WBO World Super Middleweight showdown between Abraham and Smith will be shown live on Sky Sports. Tickets are available via eventim.de.

WBO World Super Middleweight Champion Arthur Abraham (40-4, 28 KOs) and challenger Paul Smith (35-3, 20 KOs) treated fans to a public workout today at the CITTI-PARK shopping centre ahead of their world title fight on Saturday night at the Sparkassen-Arena in Kiel, Germany.

The challenger was up first joined by coach Joe Gallagher. ‘’This is the fight I have been dreaming of,’’ said Smith. ‘’Now I’m here in Germany, I’m not going to let this opportunity pass me by. This is my time! I will be bringing the belt back to England with me.’’

Abraham received a hero’s welcome when he entered the ring alongside legendary coach Ulli Wegner. ‘’I have not underestimated Smith,’’ said ‘King Arthur’. ‘‘If anything, I have overestimated him. I always expect to face the best when I step into the ring and prepare accordingly. I’m in top shape and ready to defend my title on Saturday night.’’

Polish cruiserweight Mateusz Masternak and former world title challenger Matthew Macklin could also be seen at today’s public workout. Both men are in action on Saturday night on a bumper bill featuring a host of Europe’s hottest boxing talents.

The WBO World Super Middleweight showdown between Abraham and Smith will be available to watch live on Sky Sports. Tickets are available via eventim.de.

On September 27 in Kiel, Germany, Arthur Abraham (40-4, 28 KOs) puts his WBO World Super Middleweight title on the line against Paul Smith (35-3, 20 KOs). The champion and challenger came face-to-face for the first time at today’s kick-off press conference at the Sparkassen-Arena.

The champion, ‘’King Arthur’’, is anticipating a British invasion on September 27, with Smith having reportedly already sold 2,000 tickets to his travelling fans. ‘’It’s great that Smith is bringing so many fans to Kiel,’’ said the hard-hitting 34 year-old. ‘’English fans always create a good atmosphere – even when they know their fighter will lose. This will be my fourth fight in Kiel and my fourth victory. Anybody who wants to celebrate with me on September 27 should get their tickets now before they sell out.’’

‘’It’s a dream come true to finally get my chance to fight for a world title,’’ said former British Champion, Smith. ‘’I would like to thank Team Sauerland and my promoter Eddie Hearn for making this happen. I have a lot of fans travelling over to watch me become world champion and they won’t be disappointed.’’

Promoter Kalle Sauerland is expecting an exciting fight when the pair meet at the Sparkassen-Arena. ‘’British boxers always have a great fighting spirit.’’ said Sauerland. ‘’Smith will try to get at Arthur from the opening bell and put him under pressure. Arthur will be aware of this and will be ready for whatever Smith has to offer. I think we could be in for a spectacular finish and another successful defence for King Arthur.’’

Smith’s promoter Eddie Hearn is also looking forward to an exciting fight and the opportunity to revive his friendly rivalry with Sauerland. ‘’I have worked with Kalle on two big fights recently,’’ said Hearn. ‘’On both occasions my fighters have come out on top. It will be no different on September 27.’’

Tickets for the WBO World Super Middleweight showdown between Arthur Abraham and Paul Smith are available via eventim.de.

”King” Arthur Abraham (40-4, 28 KOs) will defend his WBO World Super Middleweight crown against Paul Smith (35-3, 20 KOs) on September 27 at the Sparkassen-Arena in Kiel, Germany.

Following a unanimous points victory over Nikola Sjekola in May, Abraham will be making a second defence of the WBO title he regained in a thrilling third encounter with Robert Stieglitz, and the reigning champion is relishing a return to Kiel having previously enjoyed success at the Sparkassen-Arena.

”This will be my fourth ring appearance in Kiel,” said Abraham. ”I have won here three times before, two of them by knockout. My fight on September 27 will be the first time I’ve defended my WBO Super Middleweight belt here and there is no way I am going to lose. I will retain my World Championship and continue my winning streak at the Sparkassen-Arena.”

Looking to end Abraham’s streak is former British Champion Paul Smith. The 31 year-old has impressed at domestic level and risen up the WBO rankings to earn his first World title shot.

”I am thrilled that the fight with Arthur Abraham has been confirmed,” said Smith. ”Arthur is a great champion, a real gentleman and a brilliant ambassador for the sport. I do believe that our styles will make for a great fight, but I just think that I am getting him at the right time. I know I can beat him and have seen things in him that I can capitalise on. I am sure it will be a spectacular show and I’m proud to be fighting for a World title over in Germany.”

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ”We are delighted to announce this World Championship fight between ”King” Arthur Abraham and Paul Smith. There is a lot on the line for both men and I am sure this will make for a great spectacle on September 27. Smith has been waiting a long time for this opportunity and I fully expect him to do everything he possibly can to cause an upset. However he is facing a dangerous Abraham, a hungry, in form Abraham who is looking to cement his position, alongside the very best, at the top of the Super Middleweight division.”

Smith’s promoter Eddie Hearn shares Sauerland’s enthusiasm for the Super Middleweight clash and calls upon his fighter’s travelling fan base to support their man in Kiel.

”This is a huge opportunity for Paul and one that he and his trainer Joe Gallagher asked me to deliver for them,” said Hearn. ”The two styles blend well, it’s going to be a cracking fight and UK fans should head to Kiel on September 27 with a number of other Matchroom fighters on the bill. Domestically the Super Middleweight division is red hot right now and Paul has the chance to gatecrash the World scene in Germany.”

Tickets for the WBO World Super Middleweight Championship fight between Arthur Abraham and Paul Smith go on sale tomorrow (Monday July 21) and are available via eventim.de.

Here are the main quotes from today’s final press conference ahead of the fight between WBO Super-Middleweight World Champion Arthur Abraham (39-4, 28 KOs) and Nikola Sjekloca (26-1, 8 KOs) this Saturday at the Velodrom Berlin, Germany, which will host its first ever world title fight.

Arthur Abraham: “I am looking forward to defend the WBO Belt at home, in my town. It is great to return to the ring inside a span of two months and I want to fight two more times after this one in 2014. Before calling it a career, sitting on the couch and watching TV at age 40, I want to meet Felix Sturm at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium – that’s what I am dreaming of.”

Nikola Sjekloca: “I am thankful, finally getting the chance to fight for a world title after being rated highly in the pro ranks for such a long time. I lost to Bika but learned from my mistakes. I will show on May 3 that it was worth the wait and the experience, becoming Montenegro’s first world champion.”

Tickets for the fight night at the Velodrom Berlin, Germany are available via www.eventim.de.

In less than a week, Arthur Abraham wants to defend his WBO Crown against Nikola Sjekloca. In this interview, the prodigy of coach Ulli Wegner talks about his quick return to the squared circle and what he thinks about a possible fourth match up with compatriot Robert Stieglitz.

Only two months ago, you won back the WBO Super Middleweight World Championship from Robert Stieglitz. You will defend that title on May 3. Do you have something to prove?

Arthur Abraham: No. I do not have to prove anything to anyone, except myself. I want to show that I am still hungry for success and also want to conserve my current shape by staying active. I can take a break when I am 40 years old – being retired for good.

Before you beat Stieglitz for the WBO Title, a lot of fans and experts said that you have had enough. Was your answer inside the ring also an answer to your critics?

Arthur Abraham: I also had good tactics at hand in the rematch with Stieglitz, but his “lucky punch” rendered them void. I had the same kind of preparation for our rubber match and you saw what happened there. If I would have a lack of motivation I would have hang the gloves up rather today than tomorrow. I do not give a damn about what the critics say about it.

What about a fourth meeting with Stieglitz in the future?

Arthur Abraham: We have given the fans an action-packed fight recently and I can envision that we can still give them another good fight. However, if it will come this far – I do not now. First, Stieglitz has to earn the chance to make it happen. Maybe he has to go up against someone like Tyron Zeuge, who might be too much for Stieglitz to overcome.

Next up for you is a title defense against Nikola Sjekloca. What are your thoughts on him?

Arthur Abraham: He is physical strong and has only lost once to current world champion Sakio Bika. His technique is also respectable but it still will not be enough to beat me.

When you first met Sjekloca at the kick-off press conference earlier this month, he talked more about a possible unification with Bika than about fighting you. Does he lack the proper respect for you?

Arthur Abraham: I do not care for his future plans. And by the way: who is the world champion – him or me? Before it gets tough inside the ring, a lot of fighters can talk a good game but cannot follow up their words with action. Watch my fight on May 3 to see this happen again.

Moreover, how do you want to earn Sjekloca’s respect?

Arthur Abraham: With my punching power. When my first hard punch lands precisely, Sjekloca will know what he is up against. Then it will show what he is made of.

Your coach Ulli Wegner said that you are still progressing as a boxer. How long do you want to go on with your career?

Arthur Abraham: I hope for at least another 2-3 years. I am feeling that I still have the potential to fight against the world’s best. I am still aiming to take revenge for some of my losses, like against Andre Ward. But now, it is all about beating Sjekloca on May 3.

Tickets for the fight night at the Velodrom in Berlin, Germany are available via www.eventim.de.

Ahead of his world title challenge against WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Arthur Abraham on May 3, Nikola Sjekloca took a time out from his training to discuss his chances at the Velodrom in Berlin Germany. Here’s what he had to say…

Nikola, please give us your opinion on the fighter that is Arthur Abraham…

Nikola Sjekloca: He was a real champion with a big heart – I repeat: He was! As a middleweight, he made it to the top of the division and was a world-class operator. However, those days are long gone. Abraham is not quite as strong at the limit of 168 pounds.

…and you think you are better than he is at super middleweight?

Nikola Sjekloca: Yes, I do! I am taller and my hand speed is better than his is. On top of all this, my ring skills are just superior to Abraham’s.

You are a quite confident, Nikola – although, you have never won a world title. In your biggest fight to date, you lost to current WBC Champion Sakio Bika in a world title eliminator…

Nikola Sjekloca: That was a great experience. Because of this fight, I know that I am able to beat Abraham come May 3. Until having fought Bika, I did not know what I am capable of and this lack of knowledge cost me the win back then. Now I am pretty sure: I have the potential to be a world champion!

Were you impressed by Abraham’s performance as he recaptured the WBO Belt from Robert Stieglitz back in March?

Nikola Sjekloca: No, not really. He just made his game plan work for the whole twelve rounds as Stieglitz made some tactical mistakes from round nine on, which cost him the fight. So in my opinion, Abraham just profited from Stieglitz lapses.

What will be your key to victory?

Nikola Sjekloca: I will not give you any specifics on my tactics. The only thing I can tell you is that I am close to the camp of Floyd Mayweather. Their instructions in addition to hard workouts with my coach Milivoje Basic are the perfect package to become a world champion.

Is there any other reason to believe that you will leave the Velodrom with a win?

Nikola Sjekloca: I have never lost to an Armenian-born boxer. I knocked out two of them while being an amateur. In 2011, I fought in Germany for the first time and beat former world title challenger Khoren Gevor decisively on points. Abraham will be number four on my list. My dream will come true!

Tickets for the fight night at the Velodrom in Berlin, Germany are available via www.eventim.de.

Here are the main quotes from today’s kick-off press conference ahead of the fight between WBO Super-Middleweight World Champion Arthur Abraham and Nikola Sjekloca on May 3 at the Velodrom Berlin, Germany, which will host its first ever world title fight.

Nikola Sjekloca: “I am going to dethrone the ‘King’ Arthur and take his title away. Last year, I had a competitive fight against Sakio Bika, who went on to win the WBC Belt. Now I want to win the WBO Title and unify against Bika in a rematch. I do not underestimate Abraham as I am following his career since he had his first world championship fight. I studied his style in detail and know how to beat him.”

Arthur Abraham: “To study my style by watching videos is one thing, to step into the ring against me the other. I am leaving for training camp tomorrow morning. I know for a fact that my coach Ulli Wegner will come up with the right game plan for me to be victorious on May 3. I am really looking forward to defend the WBO World Championship in my hometown of Berlin.”

Tickets for the fight night at the Velodrom Berlin, Germany are available via www.eventim.de.

Having regained his WBO Super Middleweight crown from Robert Stieglitz, ‘’King’’ Arthur Abraham (39-4, 28 KOs) will make his first title defense against Nikola Sjekloca (26-1, 8 KOs) on May 3rd at the Velodrom in Berlin, Germany.

‘’Finally, I have the WBO belt back around my waist and I don’t plan on giving it up anytime soon,’’ said Abraham, who following a short break is back in training . ‘’I gave so much blood, sweat and tears for my last fight – and it made me a world champion again. I will need to do the same to prepare for Sjekloca on May 3rd.’’

Coach Ulli Wegner: ‘’Sjekloca, has a good jab and tries to be very active. In his fight against Sakio Bika he also showed that he can take a punch, so Arthur cannot rely only on his power.

‘’If Arthur is able to put in another performance like he did against Stieglitz, he will prove that he is one of the best super middleweights in the world. He has clearly shown me that he is still ready to progress as a boxer.’’

The announcement of the world championship fight will come as good news for boxing fans in Berlin. Particularly, as it follows the postponement and cancellation of recent shows in the German capital due to illness and injury suffered by world cruiserweight champions Yoan Pablo Hernandez and Marco Huck.

‘’Following these recent developments, it was important for us to stage this world championship fight in Berlin,’’ said Chris Meyer, Managing Director of Sauerland Event. ‘’As the saying goes: the third time’s a charm.’’

Tickets for the WBO World Championship fight at the Velodrom in Berlin on May 3rd go on sale today and are available via eventim.de.

Arthur Abraham (39-4, 28 KOs) regained the WBO Super Middleweight title with a split decision victory over Robert Stieglitz (46-4, 26 KOs) tonight in Magdeburg.

Abraham looked close to forcing the stoppage, dropping the defending champion in the final round. However Stieglitz was able to hold on and take the fight to the judges’ scorecards.

The judges scored the fight 114-111, 115-110, and 112-113 in favor of ‘’The King’’, who avenged the loss he suffered to Stieglitz last year and became a world champion for a third time.

Abraham will return to action on May 31st, when he will make the first defense of his newly won title. The opponent and venue will be announced shortly.

ESPN3 will present exclusive live coverage in the U.S. of the 12-round WBO Super Middleweight title bout between defending titleholder Robert Stieglitz (46-3, 26 KOs) and former titlist Arthur Abraham (38-4, 28 KOs) Saturday, March 1, at 5 p.m. ET. The fight, from the GETEC Arena in Magdeburg, Germany, will be the third meeting between the two boxers. Abraham won a unanimous decision over Stieglitz in their first fight in 2012 to win Stieglitz’s belt. Stieglitz scored a fourth-round TKO victory in their second meeting in 2013 to regain the title.

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According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, Robert Stieglitz will meet Arthur Abraham for a 3rd tim on March 1st as Stieglitz will defend his WBO Super Middleweight title after his promoter, SES won a purse bid.

Steinforth, who promotes Stieglitz, bid $3,135,000 to easily beat the only other offer, which was $1,541,414 by Abraham promoter Sauerland Event at the WBO purse bid. The minimum bid was $300,000.

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Rafael Get the latest scoop and analysis on the world of boxing from ESPN.com’s Dan Rafael in his blog.

“Of course, I am happy that we won the purse bid, but especially for Robert, my SES team and our [German] TV partner SAT.1,” Steinforth said. “I am happy because there is more planning certainty for us.”

As the titleholder, Stieglitz is entitled to 75 percent of the winning bid ($2,351,250) while Abraham will get the remaining 25 percent challenger’s share ($783,750).

“That’s good job by my promoter Ulf Steinforth,” Stieglitz said of his winning the purse bid. “Now I can concentrate on the preparation and on the fight against Arthur. I am also happy for my fans in Germany and especially for Magdeburg.”

Ulli Wegner’s eagerness to succeed has not waned just yet. The 71-year-old signed a contract extension with Team Sauerland on Tuesday, which binds him until early 2016. Wegner lead fighters like Sven Ottke, Markus Beyer, Arthur Abraham, Marco Huck, Yoan Pablo Hernandez and Cecilia Braekhus to world title honors after joining the professional ranks in 1996.

“I want to provide clarity, especially to my prodigies,” said the man who was named German “Trainer of the Year” annually for the last decade. “I want to point the way that I am far from done working as a corner man – I have still a lot to give and will lead them to success.”

“Ulli Wegner not only is a corner stone of our promotion, but a shining light of the whole German boxing scene. I cannot imagine our team without him. We are all happy that he extended his contract,” said Kalle Sauerland.

Wegner currently stays at the German Olympic Center in Kienbaum to prepare IBF Champion Yoan Pablo Hernandez for his mandatory title defense against Alexander Alekseev as well as light heavyweight contender Eduard Gutknecht, who has an IBF Semi-Eliminator lined up against Dmitry Sukhotsky. Both fights will headline a big night of boxing at the brose Arena in Bamberg, Germany on November 23. Tickets can be purchased at www.eventim.de and www.boxen.com.

The tension is rising! There are only three days to go until Arthur Abraham (37-4, 28 KOs) can prove that he is rightfully the mandatory challenger to WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Robert Stieglitz. On October 26 at the EWE ARENA in Oldenburg, Germany the WBO Intercontinental Titlist will meet world-ranked Giovanni De Carolis (20-4, 10 KOs). And only a win can keep his dreams of a third fight against Stieglitz alive.

“I know what’s on the line,” assured the 33-year-old Abraham at today’s press conference at the Acara Hotel in Oldenburg. Asked about his ten-year-tenure as a professional boxer with coach Ulli Wegner, the former two-weight division world champion replied jokingly: “As you can see, I have no thick hair anymore. I lost nearly all of it!” But he believes that during those years the rough tone of his cornerman has helped him to be successful. “Look Arthur,” 71-year-old Wegner added. “This Saturday night I will be in your corner and not with Karo Murat in Atlantic City. That’s what our relationship means to me!”

Said Kalle Sauerland: “Only a victory counts and I believe that Arthur is going to deliver it on October 26. It’s do or die – a wins means another crack at a world title, a loss would be catastrophic.

However, Italian De Carolis wants to spoil those plans. The 29-year-old boasted a lot of confidence today: “I’m well prepared. After having studied Abraham’s last fights, my coach and I have worked out a game plan to beat him.”

Tickets for the big fight night at the EWE ARENA Oldenburg, which also sees Jack Culcay, Robert Woge and Marcos Nader fighting in title bouts, can be purchased at www.eventim.de and www.boxen.com.

Arthur Abraham (37-4, 28 KOs) feels comfortable before his upcoming fight on October 26! At today’s public workout at the Famila Einkaufsland, the biggest mall in Oldenburg, the former world champion and opponent Giovanni De Carolis (20-4, 10 KOs) showed that there will be a fight at hand this upcoming Saturday.

“It’s good to be back in Oldenburg”, said WBO Intercontinental Champion Abraham, who will not only risk his belt but also his mandatory spot to WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Robert Stieglitz. “I had my initial world title defense at middleweight at the EWE ARENA in 2006. The people here are always excited about a good fight, which I want to offer them this weekend.” With those fond memories on his mind, Abraham fired-off some quality combinations to the pads of his coach Ulli Wegner.

The people in attendance could also witness an intense workout by De Carolis. The man from Rome, Italy, who will enjoy a height advantage of nine centimeters towards Abraham, surely did not hold back today. With that kind of self-confidence, he might very well be a threat to Abraham, who wants to continue his unbeaten streak in Oldenburg.