by Richard Cloutier
Following his recent performance against the American Omar Sheik, who also announced his retirement following the clash, fans were disappointed that Adrian Diaconu was not on the undercard of the huge event presented by InterBox at the Bell Centre on March 19, which includes Lucian Bute vs. Brian Magee in the main event.
BoxingScene.com/Netboxe.com therefore visited the National Training Center located at the Centre Claude-Robillard in Montreal, where we saw Adrian has continued his training routines in the well known facility. Pierre Bouchard, his coach, gladly took the time to explain what awaits his protege in the coming weeks.
"We work hard. We actually expect to achieve something by the spring. I would like to be able to say exactly what are we doing, but there are currently several options under consideration. So we are in the gym and soon there will be a confirmation and we will put the pedal to the gas. Currently, there are two more serious possibilities. Obviously there is Chris Henry, but Tavoris Cloud (Editor's note: the current champion IBF light-heavyweight champ) is also in the scenario. If we talk about Cloud, I think he is much more than just a slugger. He moves very well also. We agree that it would be a very exciting fight for Adrian. It would be very risky for both sides, but it would make for a good show. The cons are, the are a lot of factors to get in the ring with Cloud. To start with television. Those are great projects and Adrian must remain prepared for such combat."
Diaconu was chosen by the WBC, along with American Chris Henry to participate in a playoff battle for the light heavyweight title.
"In fact what it should be is [a fight with] Chris Henry. What was asked is for both sides to have a significant battle. Adrian then faced Sheika. We are now in serious talks with the team of Chris Henry. If it goes well, we can move forward quickly. Otherwise we will go to a purse bid and the process could take longer."
Is a duel with former WBO world champion Zsolt Erdei an option?
"Even if he decided to come and fight in America, this is something that seems less interesting because he is best known in Europe. At this level, you have to present a battle to entice a large television network that is capable of financing the confrontation. Because we are talking about large purses. And to interest the television, it does not take only a single major dance partner, it take two. "
Now what about the Adrian's Romanian colleague, Jojo Dan?
"It's the same context as Jojo Dan. He is close to a world title fight."
In fact, Jojo Dan, like Adrian Diaconu, was also selected to fight in an eliminator sanctioned by the WBC in the welterweight division. However, in his case, no opponent has yet been appointed.
"Let's just say that we follow very closely what happens with Andre Berto and Selcuk Aydin. "
About Jojo Dan, rumors also point to a possible confrontation against Antonin Decarie.
"I heard about this. This is not necessarily where we are headed. But if an interesting offer is made in terms of money, we'll take a look. But right now, a fight against Antonin, this is not what will serve Jojo any justice for the rankings. "
Indeed, Antonin Decarie is currently ranked 27th in the WBC while Jojo Dan is ranked third.
"To deliver at this level, we must consider what the person brings to the table. Either the money, visibility or ranking. Antonin bring us nothing in the rankings. What we bring, maybe money and visibility, at least in Quebec. In fact, there is no door closed. So we'll listen. "
