Harris: I Have No Problem Going To Take Povetkin's Title

By Shaun Brown

With no opponent being confirmed yet for Alexander Povetkin’s first defence of his WBA Heavyweight title, one American wants his name put in the hat – and it’s not Evander Holyfield.

An unnamed member of Maurice Harris’ (25-15-2, 11KOs) team told me that if a deal for their man to fight Povetkin can be reached then the fight may be signed as soon as next week.

“(Evander) Holyfield is out the picture”, the source told me. “(American) television doesn’t like that idea anyway and we know they need an opponent for December 3rd and they still want an American, Maurice is willing to do it. He’s coming off an exceptional win and he brings credibility.”

One look at his record and that ‘credibility’ may be brought into question but after speaking to the New Jersey fighter he’s more than ready to do whatever it takes to get his shot.

“I got no problem going to his backyard to take his title,” declared Harris.

“I’ve paid my dues; I also have a (number 6) ranking with the IBF so I’m not a nobody. I’m ready to go now; I never get out of shape. I respect him but the Europeans have had these titles way too long. The titles should’ve been in America long before now and that belt round his waste is just being kept warm for me.”

When quizzed about a lot of American heavyweights fighters seemingly happy to go to Europe and pick up a pay cheque, 35-year-old Harris had this to say in response.

“I know the money’s going to be there anyway so why would I just go and lie down for it? I’m a hungry man, if it happens then it’s gonna be a blessing from God. But if I get in that ring with him he’s gonna meet a man at 6ft 4ins, 240lbs, who’s slick, has great reflexes, can move, can box and can do it all. Listen, I’ve sparred with guys like Mike (Tyson) and Lennox (Lewis) and fought some of the best, that boy ain’t got nothing I haven’t seen before.”

“I’ve been on the bottom for a long, long time. I certainly wouldn’t put up any joke show like David Haye did when he went over or these other guys who make up the numbers. And even though I’m 35, I’m a young 35… he’s looking for somebody to fight on Dec 3 so let’s make it Maurice Harris.”