PHILADELPHIA, April 10, 2024  —  Undefeated cruiserweight Muhsin Cason will be featured on a Philadelphia Boxing Card titled “Let’s Settle,” which includes ten of Philly’s Finest biggest name fighters on Saturday, April 27 at Liacouras Center in Philadelphia. The card will be streamed live on BLK Prime, beginning at 7 pm ET/ 4 pm PT.

LET”S SETTLE is promoted by Dominic Walton’s Teflon Promotions, their first promotion. Tickets – priced $50, $115, $175, $240 and $325 – are on sale and available at TicketMaster, at this link Here

Muhsin, The Muslim Boxer” Cason (11-0, 6 KOs) was born in Baltimore and calls Philadelphia home. “I love that so many of our Philly natives get to be on one card and show their skills,” said Muhsin.  “I haven’t fought in Philly since 2022 and I can’t wait till April 27. It’s going to be a really fun night of boxing.”

Muhsin is one of seventeen and Hasim “The Rock” Rahman is his oldest brother. While Muhsin lived and trained in Las Vegas for some time, “We now live on opposite coasts, but when I was in Vegas I saw Hasim all the time. He would come to the gym. He continues to give me insight on how to be focused and overcome the obstacles.”

Muhsin is presently juggling training while also in the Philadelphia Police Academy but will be prepared for his eight-round cruiserweight bout against DeShon Webster (12-7, 6 KOs). “Every  opponent is different, so however he comes out, I’ll adjust and get the win inshallah.”

Muhsin is trained by Philadelphian Rashiem Jefferson. Rashiem, who attended Dobbins/Randolph High School and graduated from Strawberry Mansion, was 15-1 as a professional, said this about Muhson: “I think Muhsin is becoming a more complete fighter as his career continues to grow, The experience he’s getting sparring fighters like Boots Ennis,  Jesse Hart and Junior Malachi and all the other experienced fighters that he gets to share the ring with and learn from is a privilege.”

“I think the sky is the limit for Muhsin as long as he keep working hard and he and his team make the right fights at the right time. Thus far he’s had some great opportunities and he made the best out of them all. I see him as a contender for a big title soon and making a lot of money. He’ll be ready for whatever this guy brings to the ring the night of the 27th.”

Jefferson has this to say about the card: “I think if everything holds up the way it’s presenting itself this card and the future cards will be the new way of boxing in Philadelphia. I love the way they are giving fighters an outlet to shine and that’s what it’s all about.”

Fight Night Media Credential Requests

THE BLK PRIME CARD

Jesse “Hard Work” Hart (30-3, 24 KOs) Philadelphia born and raised will fight in a eight-round light heavyweight bout following the main event. Hart will ride a four-fight win streak into April 27. He is the former NABF Super Middleweight Champion, the IBF USBA Super Middleweight Champion and the WBO NABO Super Middleweight Champion.

In the main event will be a ten-round heavyweight bout between Andrew “Beast” Tabiti (20-2, 16 KOs), former world title challenger, former NABF Cruiserweight Champion and former IBF Cruiserweight Champion and Junior Anthony “Hurricane” Wright (20-5, 17 KOs).

In the co-main event, an eight-round middleweight bout, undefeated Nikitia “White Chocolate” Ababy (12-0, 6 KOs) battles former WBF Intercontinental Welterweight Champion, IBF USBA Super Lightweight Champion and WBC USA Super Lightweight Champion Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (22-20, 9 KOs)

Philadelphia born Dylan Price (17-0, 11 KOs) will open the BLK Prime show when he battles Argentinean Ernesto Sebastian “Tito” Franzolini (19-14-2, 1 KO) in an eight-round bantamweight bout.

The non-Televised Portion

Joey “Tank” Dawejko (27-11, 15 KOs), born and raised in the City of Brotherly Love, will battle a one-loss Michigander Walter Burns in a eight-round heavyweight bout.

“Hank” Lundy (31-14, 14 KOs), born and raised in Philadelphia will fight Juan De La Cruz (11-22-1, 7 KOs) from Front Royal, Virginia in a six-round super lightweight bout.

Tariq Green (5-2-1, 3 KOs), also born and raised in Philadelphia, will be looking to complement his three-fight win streak in a four-round middleweight bout against Rancy Slanger (1-0), born in Ghana who now resides in nearby Levittown, PA.

Seifullah Jihad Wise (4-8, 1 KO), born and raised in Philadelphia, will fight in a four-round super lightweight bout against Atlantic City native Aaron Newsome (2-4).

Philadelphian Shamsuddeen Justice (2-0, 2 KOs) returns to the ring after multi-year layoff to fight in a four-round super lightweight bout against Puerto Rican Kelvin Diaz.

Frankie Lynn (3-0, 3 KOs), a Chester, PA native, will fight in a four-round welterweight bout, anticipating that he adds to his perfect record.

Opening the show will be nineteen-year-old Philadelphian Richard Johnson (1-0, 1 KO), who made his professional boxing debut on February 17 with a first round knockout. He will battle Deron Eillis, making his pro debut, in a four-round super welterweight bout.

Follow Teflon promotions

At https://www.teflonpromotions.com/

On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/teflon_promotions/

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 21, 2019) – Heavyweight contender Michael Hunter (16-1, 11 KOs), is calling out all top ten contenders in the heavyweight division. Hunter is riding an impressive four-fight winning streak where he captured two recognizable titles, both of which came under the tutelage of former two-time heavyweight world champion, Hasim Rahman, who took over as head trainer in October of 2018.

On October 13, 2018, Michael Hunter traveled overseas to London, UK, and scored a 10th round TKO over previously unbeaten foe, Martin Ilunga (11-1, 8 KOs), capturing the IBO Inter-Continental Heavyweight title. Incredibly, the following month, Hunter again traveled outside of the United States to Monte Carlo, Monaco, and scored another unbelievable TKO against Alexander Ustinov (34-3, 25 KOs), this time winning the vacant World Boxing Association International Heavyweight title in the process.

“I’ve been telling everyone I’m on a mission to become the heavyweight championship of the world, and that I would go overseas and bring back knockout victories,” said a confident Michael Hunter. “I had no choice, I knew I needed knockouts, or else I wouldn’t get a decision in their native land. In both fights with Ilunga and Ustinov, I dug deep and got them both out of there. I believe in myself and I know I can beat any contender, or any of the heavyweight champions out there. With Rahman in my corner, no one is going to stop me.”

Rahman believes Hunter, who does all his training at the Prince Ranch Boxing gym in Las Vegas, has all the talent to dethrone the current heavyweight champions, including Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, and Tyson Fury.

“Michael hunter is the best heavyweight in the world,” proclaims former two-time heavyweight world champion, Hasim Rahman. “Hunter beat every American heavyweight in USA Boxing from 2008 -2012. Michael has the heart, the speed, the DNA, and underestimated punching power to capture the heavyweight championship of the world. In addition, Mike has been in the ring with the likes of Tyson Furry, sparred with Deontay Wilder, Luis Ortiz, the Klitschko Brothers, and more than held his own with them all. There’s no reason why Hunter shouldn’t be considered a serious candidate for a title shot. We’re willing to fight Joe Joyce, Dillan Whyte, Trevor Bryan, Joseph Parker, or any other heavyweight contender to earn a shot to all the heavyweight champs. I believe Hunter beats all current heavyweight champs right now.”

“I know my name is hunter, but I’m not a typical hunter with a gun.” Hunter concluded. “I promise I won’t shoot to kill, I’ll just knock you out, and you will live to fight another day. It’s hunting season!”

“Mike hunter is the future of the heavyweight division,” said Rahman. “Any of the names I mentioned, feel free to go goodnight. Mike Hunter will defeat you and put the world on notice.”

TRAVIS REEVES will be motivated by his trainer Hasim Rahman’s shock win against Lennox Lewis when he faces Anthony Yarde.

Rahman caused one of boxing’s biggest ever upsets when he became IBF and WBC champion back in April 2000, knocking out Lewis in five rounds.

Reeves (17-3-2) will attempt to cause his own stunner when he challenges Yarde (17-0) for the Ilford man’s WBO intercontinental light-heavyweight title at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Friday March 8, live on BT Sport.

He believes Rahman’s stunning win and his tough Baltimore boxing roots will play their part when he faces Yarde in only the second professional boxing show at the famous venue in more than 20 years.

Reeves said: “Look at Hasim Rahman when he beat Lennox Lewis. Like him, I am coming to win.

“You look at the fighter who have come out of Baltimore like Gervonta Davis, Jarrett Hurd, Vincent Pettway and Hasim Rahman.

“We are just a different breed and we do not come to lay down. Win, lose or draw you are going to know we’re there.

“I can’t give you too much, but wait and see what I have got. It is definitely going to be an exciting fight.

“I am not coming over the start a circus when I meet Anthony at a press conference. I am coming over there to fight, and win.”

Besides having Rahman in his corner, Reeves is also trained by Vernon Mason who ironically fought John H Stracey at the Royal Albert Hall in 1974.

Reeves added: “I follow boxing and London has played a big part in the history of the sport. I can’t wait to put on a show for fans there.

“Let us see what Anthony Yarde has got on March 8.”

Yarde’s WBO intercontinental light-heavyweight title defence against Reeves takes place at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday March 8, live on BT Sport. Daniel Dubois v Razvan Cojanu and Johnny Garton defends his British welterweight title against Chris Jenkins on a huge night of boxing that also includes the British middleweight title clash between Liam Williams and Joe Mullender. Also on the bills is unbeaten featherweight Lucien Reid, who takes on his toughest test to date against Birmingham’s Indi Sangha, while unbeaten prospects Hamza Sheeraz, Denzel Bentley, Jake Pettitt, James Branch jr and Harvey Horn feature on the show.

Tickets are priced from £40 and are available to buy via www.RoyalAlbertHall.com

TICKETS START FROM £40

GRAND TIER: £100

LOGGIA: £100

SECOND TIER: £75

INDIO, CALIF. (Nov. 27, 2018): Former heavyweight world champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman will be the special VIP guest for the Dec. 8 edition of Golden Boy Fight Night at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The event will be headlined by the 12-round WBA Super Featherweight World Title Eliminator bout between Rene “El Gemelo” Alvarado (29-8, 20 KOs) and Carlos “The Solution” Morales (17-3-3, 6 KOs). The action will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT/9:00 p.m. ET.

Rahman is native of Baltimore, Md. who faced the likes of David “Tuaman” Tua, Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield, John “The Quietman” Ruiz, James “Lights Out” Toney and Alexander “Russian Vityaz” Povetkin in a historic career that lasted 20 years. Rahman is known for stopping Lennox “The Lion” Lewis via fifth-round knockout to capture WBC, IBF, IBO and Lineal Heavyweight World Titles. The bout was named Upset of the Year and Knockout of the Year by Ring Magazine in the year 2001. Rahman will be in attendance for this event to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

In the co-main event, Jonathan “Thunder” Navarro (15-0, 8 KOs) of East Los Angeles, Calif. will face Manuel Mendez (16-3-3, 11 KOs) of Indio, Calif. in a 10-round super lightweight fight.

Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr. (15-0, 5 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas, will battle Roberto “Tito” Manzanarez (36-2, 29 KOs) of Phoenix, Arizona in a 10-round lightweight clash.

NABO Featherweight Champion Joet Gonzalez (20-0, 11 KOs) of Glendora, Calif. will defend his belt for the first time in a 10-round fight.

Luis Feliciano (8-0, 5 KOs) of Utuado, Puerto Rico will open the night of action in an eight-round super lightweight attraction.

Javier Padilla (6-0-1, 5 KOs) of Indio, Calif. will participate in a four-round featherweight clash.

Anthony Reyes (3-0, 2 KOs) of Coachella Valley, Calif. will face Dilan Miranda (3-0, 2 KOs) of San Diego, Calif. in a four-round super bantamweight fight.

Patricio Manuel will make his professional debut in a four-round super featherweight fight.

Opponents for the undercard fighters will be announced shortly.

Alvarado vs. Morales is a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight World Title Eliminator presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate,”THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.” The fights will take place Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The action will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT/9:00 p.m. ET.

Tickets for the event are on sale and start at $25. Tickets will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Media interested in attending Alvarado vs. Morales must request credentials by emailing [email protected] by 5:00 p.m. PT on Friday, Nov. 30.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing
Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonFB and #AlvaradoMorales

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or by copying and
pasting link: http://bit.ly/AlvaradoMorales into a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

LAS VEGAS, NV (March 13, 2018) – Prince Ranch Boxing is happy to announce the addition of former two-time heavyweight world champion, Hasim Rahman, to its management team. Rahman, who is best known for knocking out hall of famer, Lennox Lewis, back in 2001. Rahman will help with scouting talent, while working closely with trainer Bones Adams at the Prince Ranch Boxing facility in Las Vegas.

“Hasim has a keen eye when it comes to scouting talented fighters,” said Greg Hannely, president of Prince Ranch Boxing. “Adding him to our management team is only going to make us stronger. He’s been in the ring with world class fighters and knows what it takes to get to the top. He’s going to be a valuable asset to our team.”

“I’ve known Greg Hannely for many years and I’m happy to be part of his management team,” said Hasim Rahman. “We have a lot of young fighters working out at the Prince Ranch training facility who are looking for solid management. I’m here to scout the talent that comes our way and sign the best fighters. We are building a nice stable of boxers who we believe can become world champions.”

Prince Ranch Boxing has some very talented fighters under contract that include, Isaac Avelar (14-0, 9 KOs), Edwing Davila (17-0, 10 KOs), Blair Cobbs (7-0, 5 KOs), Damien Vasquez (13-0, 7 KOs), Humberto Velazco (19-1, 13 KOs), Victor Pasillas (12-0, 5 KOs), and Donavan Estrella (11-0, 4 KOs), to name a few.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, The son’s of former Heavyweight world champion Hasim Rahman have filed suit against Floyd Mayweather, Floyd Mayweathwer and Showtime for alleged sparring sessions that aired during the All Access show that was aired in the buildup to the Mayweather – Maidana rematch.

Upset that his brother had taken such a vicious pounding, Hasim Rahman Jr. arrived at the gym and challenged the smaller Cameron to get into the ring with him. While members of the gym lined up wagers, including Mayweather, they fought for 31 consecutive minutes, according to the telecast and lawsuit, until Cameron could not go on. All the while, Mayweather was present and cheering wildly.

The suit alleges that “Mayweather forced Sharif to fight multiple rounds of approximately 5, 6 and 7 minutes in length.” Sharif contends that he asked for traditional three-minute rounds but Mayweather said “this is the doghouse” and to “turn those bells off.”

“Sharif feared for his safety and was forced to continue to fight,” the suit said.

On Sept. 23, Mayweather testified — although not under oath — to the commission that the sparring scenes (as well as others featuring several of Mayweather’s girlfriends smoking marijuana in front of him in his Las Vegas home) were staged for the television show in order to help boost pay-per-view sales. He said the 31-minute sparring session did not happen as the fighters were allowed to take several breaks. He also told the commission that the gambling shown in the episode was also fake.

“With ‘All Access,’ we’re able to edit and chop footage the way we want,” Mayweather told the commission.

The commission was concerned over the lack of regard for the health and safety of the fighters and questioned him about the “doghouse” fights but accepted his version of events and closed the matter — much to the surprise of many, because there were numerous people in the gym, including Showtime production personnel, who were not questioned about the sparring.

“Defendant Mayweather knowingly misrepresented facts while testifying before the Nevada State Athletic Commission,” the suit said.

He produced the songs for Dariusz Michalczewski, Graciano “Rocky”
Rocchigiani and Henry Maske, whose walk-in tune “Time to say Goodbye” is one
of the greatest songs in boxing history. Next in line could be “Golden”
Jack, who is defending his WBA Intercontinental Championship at the
Sporthalle Hamburg against Mark Thompson on Saturday. Producer of the stars,
Frank Peterson, is sending the singing monks of Gregorian (over 6 Mio. sold
copies) to the ring. The chart toppers, who jumped straight into the German
top ten with their new album “Epic Chants”, will sing their newest single
“World Without End” in cooperation with the Russian singer Eva Mali, to
perform for Culcay. And the German shooting star is already looking forward
to the show act: “I am so excited to be walking into the ring to Gregorian.
I don’t want to give away too much, but the show is going to be of the
chain.” But not only will the musical highlight be of great quality. The
sport on display will also get the crowd roaring. Right after Culcay,
Alexander Povetkin steps into the ring. The WBA Heavyweight Champion will
face Hasim Rahman from America. Also putting his belts on the line is Kubrat
Pulev who has to defend his European Heavyweight and IBF-International
Championship against Alexander Ustinov.

The tension is building. Saturday’s big fight night is just around the
corner. Three title fights are scheduled and they all have one thing in
common. The WBA Heavyweight Championship between Alexander Povetkin (24-0,
16 KOs) and Hasim Rahman (50-7-2, 41 KOs), Kubrat Pulev´s (16-0, 8 KOs)
European and IBF International Heavyweight Championship defence against
Alexander Ustinov (27-0, 21 KOs) and the WBA Intercontinental Championship
bout between Jack Culcay (12-0, 8 KOs) and Mark Thompson (24-1, 14 KOs) are
all likely to end prematurely. It would be a surprise if all of them would
last the distance.

Convinced of an early success is Hasim Rahman. Once again, the 39-year-old
stated his intentions of knocking out current WBA Champion Alexander
Povetkin and taking his throne. “I’m happy that I got the chance for the
title. I’m completely focused on myself and it doesn’t matter who is in
front of me. I will knock Povetkin out.” But how quickly could he end the
bout? “Between rounds one and twelve,“ said the challenger. Also in good
spirits was Alexander Povetkin. “My preparation has been going really well.
I have a lot of respect for Hasim Rahman and his experience,“ said the
33-year-old. His coach Kostya Tszyu added: “Since we started working
together, Alexander has progressed about 40 percent.” Therefore, Team
Povetkin has every reason to be optimistic.

The same principal applies for the defending European and IBF International
Heavyweight Champion Kubrat Pulev. Lately, the prodigy of Coach Otto Ramin
has been riding on a wave of success. “Ever since I won the European title,
Bulgaria has been pretty much ecstatic. Whenever I walk along the streets,
the people recognise me. That motivates me even more to defend my two titles
come Saturday night,” said the 31-year-old, who is known as a joker if he is
not inside the squared circle. However, inside the ring it is all about
serious business. And his opponent Alexander Ustinov is very well aware of
that. The 140 Kilo colussus stated: “If the opportunity for a knockout
arises I will take it.”

The fight for the WBA Intercontinental Championship between Jack Culcay and
Mark Thompson also has the potential to end early. “I said before that I am
not travelling all the way to Germany to lose. I will do what I have to do.
If an opportunity presents itself, I will take it,” said the man from
Heywood near Manchester via a pre-recorded video. But Culcay, who turned 27
today, does not want anyone to spoil his party in front of the home crowd.
“His record is definitely the most dangerous one out of all of my opponents
so far. But in Hamburg I will prove, that I’m the better man,” said the
German light middleweight.

Since yesterday’s late arrival in Hamburg, Germany, it is no secret that
Hasim Rahman (50-7-2, 41 KOs) likes to take his time. But after today’s
public workout at the Europa Passage in Hamburg, it also no secret, that
Rahman possesses some serious pob in his fists. But as expected, he was
fashionably late. After leaving the hotel behind schedule and an interview
on site, he changed into his training gear and had his hands taped. The
media and fans had to be patient before they were able to see the challenger
in action.

But then, he got started – and he did so with a bang. Just a few weeks ago
during the first official press conference ahead of the big fight on
Saturday, Rahman drew attention due to his presumably overweight size. But
on Tuesday all of that seemed to be a thing of the past. In a much better
condition, the 39-year-old started his session by hitting the pads. And one
thing is for sure: Even Alexander Povetkin (24-0, 16 KOs) would have been
impressed by those powerful jabs and hooks the challenger put on display.

The session of the current WBA Heavyweight Champion was after Rahmans and
therefore, he wasn’t able to follow the happenings on stage. He also missed
out on the Americans promise he made for the clash on the September 29: “I
will knock him out.”

Defending Champion Alexander Povetkin took a lot of time out of his schedule
to give the waiting spectators a real show. In the former Triple-Champion
Kostya Tszyu, he has a coach who knows how to keep the masses entertained.
“I am not a fan of big announcements”, said to the Hall-of-Famer. “But
Alexander has been training hard. There is no reason why he should not be
able to present himself in top-shape.” And that was exactly what he did
during the public workout: Warm-up, rope skipping, shadowboxing and finally
hitting the pads. “I am looking forward to a great fight on Saturday night,”
said the Champion and continued: “I don’t expect this bout to be easy.”

Also present at today’s public training session were Kubrat Pulev (16-0, 8
KOs) and his challenger Alexander Ustinov (27-0, 21 KOs). The heavyweight
clash at the Sporthalle Hamburg is not just about the European and
IBF-International Title. The winner will also receive the status as IBF´s
number one ranked fighter.

Jack Culcay (12-0, 8 KOs) also showed of his set of skills at the Europa
Passage. The WBA Intercontinental Light Middleweight Champion will face
Britain’s Mark Thompson (24-1, 14 KOs) this Saturday.

September 29 is filled with topclass title fights. Not only will heavyweight
boxers Alexander Povetkin (WBA Championship against Hasim Rahman) and Kubrat
Pulev (European and IBF International Championship against Alexander
Ustinov) put their titles on the line. Also fighting to keep his belt is
light middleweight Jack Culcay (12-8, 8 KOs). The young German takes on Mark
Thompson (24-1, 14 KOs) from Manchester for the WBA Intercontinental
Championship. The 26-year-old took some time out of his busy schedule to
talk about the upcoming fight.

Jack Culcay, your last fight took place in Berlin on August 25. You won that
bout by technical knock-out in round three and therefore the WBA
Intercontinental Championship. What did you learn from that night?

Jack Culcay: The fight and the way it ended once again proved that
everything is possible when it comes to sport but especially boxing. The cut
suffered by Frederic Serre meant, that his night was over just a few rounds
into the fight. That could have also happened to me.

In 2009 you won the amateur world championships. In Berlin you were able to
celebrate your first professional title. How did it feel?

Jack Culcay: It was amazing. You can´t really describe the feeling and the
emotions once the referee declares you as the winner.

Does this first title change anthing when it comes to your attitude towards
your training as well as the next fight?

Jack Culcay: The only thing that changes is the pressure on my shoulders
which becomes even bigger. Before, I was the one hunting for glory. Now I am
the hunted. My opponents will do everything possible to take that belt of
me. At the same time, I will do everything possible to keep it.

Only a few weeks have passed since your victory. Did that have an effect on
your preparations?

Jack Culcay: The last fight only lasted for three rounds. I was prepared to
go the distance and therefore it didn’t take that much out of me. If it
would have gone on for twelve rounds, I probably wouldn’t be fighting again
straight away.

Is it possible to adapt to a new opponent in such a short period of time?

Jack Culcay: Of course it is. I have been sparring against three very
different guys during my training. I am used to it because as my time as an
amateur. At tournaments, you have to fight different styles within just a
few days. Therefore, it shouldn’t be a problem at all.

Your next opponent is Mark Thompson. What are your thoughts on him?

Jack Culcay: The most obvious thing is his height. With 1.80 Meters he is
eight centimetres taller than me. But I actually think that suits me quite
well. So far, most of my opponents were taller than me. That way I can use
my superior speed to my advantage.

The bout takes place in your adopted hometown Hamburg. How excited are you
to be fighting there?

Jack Culcay: It is going to be a great atmosphere. The people of Hamburg are
very passionate when it comes to sports and I know that they will be right
behind me. Of course I will do everything possible to give them a good show.

How will the fight end on September 29?

Jack Culcay: I will have to give you my usual answer as it is true: You can
not predict the outcome of any sporting event but especially not boxing. And
it is pretty much impossible to predict the way a fight ends. I am ready to
go the distance. If I manage to win the fight early then so be it. I will
never plan to knock-out somebody as it just adds pressure on me. The main
thing is that I will be the last man standing.

Former undisputed and two-time Heavyweight Champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman (50-7-2, 41 KOs) is putting the final touches on an “intense” training camp that has him in the best shape he’s been in a decade.

Rahman will challenge WBA World Heavyweight Champion Alexander Povetkin (24-0, 16 KOs) on Saturday, September 29 at the Sporthalle in Hamburg, Germany, and his promoter says the conditions are ripe for another upset KO to win the title.

“They’ve been basically writing Hasim off since the start of the promotion,” said Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions, Rahman’s promoter. “Hasim isn’t even on the posters for this event. They’ve been making jokes and having fun. But while they were doing that, Hasim has been getting himself into fantastic shape.”

According to Cohen, it’s all reminiscent of the buildup to Rahman’s upset KO over Lennox Lewis 11 years ago.

“Hasim is going to shock the world again. This is the exact situation you don’t put Rahman in. Disrespected. Overlooked. An over-confident champion thinking he can just show up and win. But in the gym with Hasim, and seeing how focused he is, you know something’s about to happen.

The 39-year-old Rahman was originally scheduled to face Povetkin on July 14, but an injury forced the postponement.

“Hasim is completely healthy and ready to pull off the upset. I think at this stage of his career, it takes a big fight like this and an opponent and his people behaving this way to put him at peak motivation… and that’s what he is. Hasim Rahman is 100% ready to shock the world.”

The fight for the WBA World Heavyweight Championship is getting closer. On
September 29, defending champion Alexander Povetkin (24-0, 16 KOs) and
mandatory challenger Hasim Rahman (50-7-2, 41 KOs) will battle it out at the
Sporthalle Hamburg, Germany. Since his last bout against Marco Huck, a lot
has changed for team Povetkin. With ring legend Kostya Tszyu he has someone
in his corner, who will help him to exploit his full potential. In the
following interview Povetkin talks about his new training and his next
opponent Hasim Rahman.

Alexander Povetkin, your last fight against Marco Huck was seven months ago.
A lot has been said since then. Now that you had time to reflect, what are
your thoughts on that topic?

Alexander Povetkin: It was a hard and tough battle, and both of us had to go
to the limits of our capacity. However, in the end I beat Marco as I landed
the more precise punches than him.

What lessons did you learn from this extremely close fight?

Alexander Povetkin: Of course, I learned a lot from that fight. My team and
I know what we have to do to prepare myself in order to be better than last
time. For example, we have worked a lot on my stamina during my current
preparations.

Your next opponent Hasim Rahman already was a world champion. He stood
inside the ring on 60 occasions and fought the likes of Evander Holyfield,
Lennox Lewis and Wladimir Klitschko. What are your thoughts on him?

Alexander Povetkin: He should not be underestimated, that’s for sure. If he
comes to the ring in good shape on September 29, and I am sure he will be,
then he’s going to be a real challenge for me.

Will Rahman’s experience be an advantage for him?

Alexander Povetkin: He is somebody, who can change the outcome of a fight
with just one punch. Therefore, I have to stay really focussed against him.
Experience is always an advantage and might help him against me. So I have
to be prepared for all possibilities.

You are currently training in Moscow. How is your training camp going?

Alexander Povetkin: Everything is fine and we are training in a
state-of-the-art gym. We have a lot of useful sparring partners. Everything
is perfect and as it should be.

Over the last few months, you have been working with your new coach, Kostya
Tszyu. How satisfied are you with him?

Alexander Povetkin: I feel privileged to be working with him. He was an
excellent boxer and now he is an excellent coach. I have learned a lot from
him.

So will we see a “new” Alexander Povetkin when you step into the ring come
September 29?

Alexander Povetkin: No, that will not be the case. Kostya Tszyu doesn´t want
a new fighter, as it isn’t necessary. We want to improve aspects that I am
already good at. We also working on my weaknesses as well and want to wipe
them out. Altogether, I will be a more complete boxer trough our work inside
the gym.

Finally, how is your fight against Rahman going to end? Will it be a fight
over twelve rounds or less?

Alexander Povetkin: You can’t foresee what will happen and I don’t like
giving such statements ahead of a fight. I just know one thing for sure: I
will be one hundred percent for that bout and will do my best to be the one
standing tall when everything is said and done. It doesn’t matter if it will
go for twelve rounds or if it will end prematurely. The main thing is me
keeping my belt.

Hasim Rahman (50-7-2, 41 KOs) wants to do it again. The man who already took
on big names such as Lennox Lewis will face current WBA Champion Alexander
Povetkin (24-0, 16 KOs) at the Sporthalle Hamburg, Germany, on September 29.
And the American is not planning on just showing up. At the age of 39,
Rahman is aiming to become the champion of the world once more. Right before
the big showdown, the heavyweight took some time out of his preparations for
a one-on-one interview.

Hasim Rahman, you will be stepping back into the ring on September 29. Your
last fight was in June 2011 which ended in a victory over Galen Brown. Now
you have had quite a long break.

Hasim Rahman: The Galen Brown fight was over a year ago and really was a
tune up. About the only thing I can say is, that I will be in a lot better
condition for the Povetkin fight than I was for Galen.

What are your thoughts on your next opponent Alexander Povetkin? Where do
you see his strengths and which weaknesses are you planning to exploit when
you meet him inside the ring?

Hasim Rahman: Povetkin is a very good fighter. He has proven to be a winner
at every level. He was an Olympic gold medallist and is the current WBA
Champion. I have respect for him as a boxer. Regardless of his strengths or
weaknesses, I know what I have to do and that is to knock him out. I know
that when I’m at my best, no one can take my power and I will knock him or
anyone else out, period!

As mentioned before it has been a while since your last fight. When did you
start preparing for Povetkin and what shape are you currently in?

Hasim Rahman: I’ve been preparing for this fight for six months. We thought
we were going to fight in May, then July, now it is September 29. I haven’t
been this ready for a fight in many years. I’m prepared to go twelve rounds,
I’m in great condition.

How are you dealing with the time difference between your hometown of Las
Vegas and Germany?

Hasim Rahman: It won’t have an impact on my performance. The first time I
fought Lennox Lewis it was in South Africa and the time difference didn’t
affect me. I will arrive in Hamburg a week before the fight, so within a day
I will have adjusted to the local time.

You have been in 60 fights as a professional and fought some of the biggest
names such as Holyfield and Lewis. How much of an advantage might your
experience be against Povetkin?

Hasim Rahman: My experience is invaluable. This is not my first rodeo, I
have performed on the largest stage and know how to keep my focus and how to
embrace the moment.

This will be your second fight in Germany. What is your take on the German
boxing scene? Do you enjoy fighting over here?

Hasim Rahman: I am a professional and I will fight wherever I have to.
Germany has become the hot spot for heavyweight title fights. The fans are
knowledgeable and really support boxing. I’m looking forward to wowing them
with my performance.

How will the fight end on September 29? Will it go the distance?

Hasim Rahman: No fight at this level is easy, but I know that I am 100
percent prepared and so I am supremely confident. The fight will not go the
distance. I will KO Povetkin on September 29.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the postponed WBA Heavyweight title bout bwteen champion Alexander Povetkin and former champion Hasim Rahman has been res scheduled for September 29th in Hamburg, Germany.

The original bout that was scheduled for July 14th was postponed due to a cyst on Rahman’s wrist

“The cyst was successfully removed in its entirety. No more cysts,” said Rahman’s promoter Greg Cohen. “Hasim has received full medical clearance to resume all boxing activities effective immediately. Hasim is looking forward to shocking the world again.”

“They provided us with medicals that appear to be in order,” Sauerland Event general manager Chris Meyer said. “We have scheduled the bout for Sept. 29 in Hamburg. We are happy that the bout will finally go ahead.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former world champion Hasim Rahman has pulled out of his WBA World title challenge with champion Alexander Povetkin on July in Germany due to a wrist injury.

“He was working out and he had excruciating pain in his wrist because of the cyst,” said Rahman’s promoter Greg Cohen said. “His trainer, Eddie Mustafa (Muhammad), stopped the session and had him go to the doctor. He had an MRI. ‘Rock’ wanted to have a cortisone shot, but the doctor said it wouldn’t help. So he had surgery (Thursday) morning. Everything went fine. He’s out for two weeks. Really, it’s a minor thing, but obviously we have to postpone the fight.”

“All of us were looking forward to the event,” Sauerland Event managing director Chris Meyer said, “but it is our responsibility to deliver world-class boxing to the spectators inside the arena and the audience at home in front of their TVs. Therefore, after hearing (about) the injury of Alexander’s opponent, we had to cancel the whole show.”

“Our contract calls for a postponement if there’s an injury,” Cohen said. “From our perspective, the fight will be postponed. We’re the mandatory, and Povetkin has to make his mandatory defense. I expect Rahman and Povetkin will be fighting each other in their next fight. It’s a matter of the German TV date.”

“It was a pretty substantial cyst around the wrist, and he said from time to time he had discomfort, but never a big deal,” Cohen said. “‘Rock’ is not a complainer. He didn’t have it checked out. (Wednesday) he said it was like a sledgehammer hitting his wrist every time he punched. He saw the doctor, had the surgery. He did the right thing. Now we have to reschedule the fight.”

“They were disappointed to hear the news but appreciative that as soon as we knew we informed them,” Cohen said. “We hope to have a new date worked out with them soon.”