By Jake Donovan
Exactly one month prior to fight night for his first bout of what he promises to be a big 2015 campaign, David Price now has an opponent to go along with the showcase appearance. The 6’8” British heavyweight will face Brazil’s Irineu Beato Costa Junior in the chief supporting slot of a February 21 show at O2 World Arena in Berlin, headlined by the super middleweight title fight rematch between Arthur Abraham and Paul Smith.
The bout marks Price’s first ring appearance since a 10-round decision win last June. Injuries have kept the heavyweight hopeful out of the ring for the remainder of 2014, but his placement on a big show in Berlin will serve—he believes—as the next step towards title contention.
“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and remind everybody what I’m all about,” said Price (18-2, 15KOs). “Costa Junior is exactly the type of opponent I wanted. He’s got a decent record, similar to my own. Last year, he went 12 rounds with Christian Hammer (who faces Tyson Fury next month in London), so we know he’s no mug.
“It will be another step up, but I think he will bring out the best in me. I’m confident I will get the win.”
Price saw his career nearly bottom out following back-to-back losses to Tony Thompson in 2013. The rest of the year was spent reevaluating his goals in the sport, which led to a complete team makeover, including his signing with Sauerland Event.
“2015 is going to be a huge year for Pricey,’” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “That starts in Berlin on February 21. Costa Junior is a serious opponent. With a convincing victory, we can send a message to all the heavyweights around the world – the big man is back and he means business!”
The February 21 ring appearance will mark his fourth straight outside of England, including his third appearance in Germany after having never previously fought outside of his native country. That’s not to say he will be on his own next month; far from it, as hoards of fans are planning to make the trek from the U.K. to support their heavyweight.
From there, perhaps a home game will be in store for the wildly popular Liverpudlian.
“The support from Liverpool will be fantastic,’’ said Price. “There will be loads of fans coming over to get behind Paul (Smith) and myself. I'm looking forward to being a part of such a big card. It will set up me up nicely for a ‘homecoming’ fight later this year.”
Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of BoxingScene.com, as well as a member of Transnational Boxing Ratings Board and the Boxing Writers Association of America. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox
