Ibeabuchi.
Manny Pacquiao?s adviser Michael Koncz who was recently hired by undefeated heavyweight Ike ?The President? Ibeabuchi, has claimed that Pacquiao insisted that the former Nigerian, who is 43 years old, be on the fight card when he faces Timothy ?Desert Storm? Bradley for the third time in Las Vegas on April 9.
Koncz has no plans of providing Ibeabuci, who has a record of 20-0 with 15 knockouts, a tune-up fight and intends to put him in against a top 15 heavyweight contender in his return to the ring after 17 years.
Boxing Scene quoted Koncz who claimed "Manny insisted that Ike be on the card," Koncz who serves as adviser to both Pacquiao and now Ibeabuchi informed BoxingScene.com of the April 9 card, stating "He (Ibeabuchi) signed with MP (Manny Pacquiao) Promotions (who along with Top Rank serves as co-promoter of the April 9 event) with the intention of making a big splash right away. He's not interested in a tune-up; we're looking for a Top 15-ranked heavyweight for his first fight back."
Ibeabuchi made a big impression in a war with previously unbeaten heavy puncher David Tua in June 1997 and is best known for what was regarded as a highlight reel 5th round knockout of Chris Byrd in March 1999 with a vicious left hook and although Byrd beat the count he was soon sent crashing to the canvas.
Ibeabuchi had several brushes with the law and in 1999 was charged with sexual assault of an exotic dancer at a Las Vegas hotel room and was sentenced to 20 years in prison before he was released in February last year but was only released from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement authorities last November.
Koncz says Ibeabuchi was the best young heavyweight of his time and added ?from where we sit he can still bring that level of excitement for a division that can always use it.?
Koncz maintains ?the sport needs someone exciting to fill the void at the top. We honestly believe Ike Ibeabuchi cam be the one to do it.?
Comments
Share your thoughts on the above article by Ronnie Nathanielsz.