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RETRO WBSS: THE YOUNG DREAMER VS THE OLD CHAMP
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 17 Apr 2020
Murat Gassiev vs Krzysztof Wlodarczyk was the fourth Cruiserweight Quar-ter-Final of Season 1 of the quest for the Ali Trophy, and tonight’s mouthwatering match-up live at 7pm (UK) on World Boxing Super Series Facebook and YouTube.
Gassiev was about to make his first defence of his IBF crown in the quarter-final against Wlodarczyk on 21 October 2017.
“To be a champion and defend my belt is something I always dreamed of,” Gassiev said at the press conference prior to the fight. “I want to stay in this position for a long time.”
But the 24-year-old at that time had bigger ambitions than being a champion of ‘just’ one of boxing’s four major sanctioning bodies.
“This is an exciting tournament with four world champions (Usyk, Briedis-Dorticos, Gassiev). It’s a great opportunity for all the fighters. This is the best way to unify titles and show everyone I’m the best cruiserweight in the world.”
On facing a former champion in the shape of Poland’s Wlodarczyk, his 12 years older rival, Gassiev said: “When we faced-off I looked inside his eyes and saw that he is very serious. He’s ready for a big fight and I will make sure this is a great fight on Satur-day.
“This is someone who earned his chance to fight me. I will always challenge the best in the division no matter who they are.”
Wlodarczyk’s mission was to reclaim the belt he owned for six months in 2007. He also held the WBC title from 2010 to 2014.
“I’m going to have to be at my best and I feel I will be,” said Wlodarczyk. “I have to be the smarter fighter in the ring. I think I can take advantage of my experience by staying smart and making better adjustments. I’m going to be ready for anything Gassiev throws at me.”
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