By Ruslan Chikov
Teddy Atlas, who trains the new WBA "regular" heavyweight champion Alexander Povetkin, discussed the future development of his fighter with veteran reporter Alexander Pavlov. Atlas was candid with his comments pertaining to a possible Povetkin vs. Wladimir Klitschko showdown and gave his thoughts on Povetkin's recent title win over former champion Ruslan Chagaev.
- Why do you feel nervous when it comes to a possible fight between Klitschko and Alexander?
- I think this is an incorrect assessment. Right now, it's not the time or place for all of these questions about Klitschko. Alexander won the title. Give him a chance to defend it, enhance, and establish himself as a champion. He's barely grown. Let him gain experience and then he could fight Klitschko.
- Who could be the next opponent for Alexander?
- I don't know. Sasha should evolve to become more famous. Although he is an Olympic champion, a lot of people don't knw him. In order to get known, he needs to make a few title defenses. Look, against whom did Klitschko spend his time defending against? Who were his opponents in the majority of the fifty battles? Did you forget Wladimir was knocked out a few times? But he gained experience, he grew and gained confidence. That's all I want right now - the proper development of my boxers. A meeting with Klitschko is possible after a few fights.
- At what point in the fight with Chagaev became the most stressful for you?
- The sixth round. I really didn't like it. We don't need this kind of situtation [in a fight]. But when you go for a world title, you should expect that these kind of moments can occur. I gave Alexander advance warning: 'We are going to win the title, but in this fight there could be some unpleasant moments. We are going to overcome them, and you'll be heavyweight champion.'