By Rafal Kyc
Trainer James Ali Bashir doesn't blame the displeasure of the boxing fans, who weren't pleased when unified champion Wladimir Klitschko (59-3, 50 KOs) selected Francesco Pianeta (28-0-1, 15 KOs) as his next opponent on May 4th. Bashir says the blame doesn't fall with Wladimir, because many of the top contenders are not willing to fight his boxer.
"I do not want to sound like I don't have respect for Pianeta, but I do not believe that he is any threat to Wladimir. This fight will last no more than seven rounds," Bashir said.
"The problem with the selection of opponents for the brothers is a little more complex than what it seems to be for the fans. There are a lot of candidates, but they do not necessarily want a real fight. Look at Tyson Fury. He always has a lot to say, but I wonder if it would [talk so much] if he stood in front of Wladimir in the ring. This fight would definitely sell in the UK. Another nice choice would be Kubrat Pulev, who won several important fights."
