by Richard Cloutier
 
Groupe Yvon Michel held a press conference to officially announce the middleweight showdown between WBC International champion David Lemieux (25-1-0) and former WBA junior middleweight king Joachim Alcine (32-2-1). The latter was attending the presser via teleconference from his home in Florida, where he continues his training which began in California.

It was in reference to the many changes in his preparation where Alcine confirmed his optimism about the outcome of the fight, which takes place on December 10th at the Bell Centre in Montreal. The event will be part of GYM's popular Fast and Furious series.
 
"I think David Lemieux has what it takes to one day become champion. For my part, I will do everything in my power to become world champion. It's just a shame that Lemieux stands in my way," said Alcine.

When asked about his previous defeats by knockout against Daniel Santos and Alfredo Angulo, Alcine offered his own response:

"It's a blessing that things like that happened. Today I have the maturity and I know what to work on in order to succeed in the ring. "
 
In his latest duel, fought on August 20th, Alcine signed a promotional contract with DiBella Entertainment, and went to a draw with Jose Medina.

Lemieux showed a lot of respect for his opponent.

"He has experience and he knows what's waiting for him in the ring. He's not crazy. He knows that I have a good punching power and he will be prepared for that. I'll be prepared for the worst case scenario [a decision win], and if it happens to come more easily [by knockout], it will be so much the better."

Marc Ramsay, the new coach of Lemieux, did not fail to remind everyone that he was very familiar with Alcine, who delivered the vast majority of his fights in Montreal.

"I had the opportunity to work in his corner with Mike Moffa during his first five professional fights," said Ramsay. "I know what he is capable of. I plan to prepare David for a fight with Joachim at his best."
 
Lemieux confirmed to BoxingScene.com/Netboxe.com that he plans to hold his training camp in Montreal, and sparring sessions are going to take place with Jean Pascal, Eleider Alvarez and two other boxers.