By Carlos Boogs
BoxingScene.com caught up with rated WBA heavyweight contender Mark De Mori (27-1-2) following his most recent DQ win over Marino Goles (16-1) in Germany. Here is what he had to say:
BoxingScene: Ultimately the referee decided to disqualify Goles in the 3rd round for repeated fouls. Are you upset with having to settle for the DQ?
DE MORI: I was too fast and elusive for Goles. I think he knew I was going to be hard to catch and he got frustrated. No big deal. So long as I keep making gains in my training and performance, I am happy—eventually I will get a chance to prove myself against the best, and that’s what I am looking forward to.
BoxingScene: Although 32 is young for a heavyweight, you’ve been a pro 10 years now. Are you frustrated that you haven’t gotten your big break yet?
DE MORI: I see my career a lot like Bermane Stiverne’s. Like me, he’s been a pro approximately 10 years but he’s only made a name for himself recently in his last two fights against Chris Arreola. Bermane was just as talented before the first Arreola fight, but no one knew it. I am 3 years younger than Bermane, so I am being patient because I’ve got a great supportive team around me and I know my time will come.
BoxingScene: Who would you like to fight next?
DE MORI: Obviously, everyone wants a title shot but Klitschko has his hands full with injuries and mandatories. More realistic for me in the near term is perhaps the winner of Stiverne and Wilder. I am rated in the WBA, so naturally it would be an honor to box Ruslan Changaev for the WBA championship. Also, I would welcome a fight in Russia against Alexander Povetkin if he beats Takam. But the fight I would really want is David Haye, if he decides to come back this year.
BoxingScene: Why Haye?
DE MORI: First off, Haye is a tremendous boxer and I have a great deal of respect for him. He’s the former WBA heavyweight champion and unified cruiserweight champion. Even though David’s been inactive, he’s still one of the top 2-3 attractions in the heavyweight division and brings excitement. Most importantly, David brings a big audience every time he fights. He’s a showman that knows how to sell a fight. That being said, David hasn’t boxed in a professional boxing match in two years and he’s in a tricky situation. I don’t think his fans will let him come back against anyone. I think they will want him to fight a ranked contender. But the reality is, coming off such a long layoff, I think he would have trouble dealing with my constant pressure and strength. I think his timing will be way off and plus he’s coming off a major injury. It’s the perfect time to fight and beat him! If Haye comes back, that’s a fight I will pursue. A big win on a big stage, that’s what I am looking for.
BoxingScene: Anything you’d like to add for the fans?
DE MORI: Thanks for the support, especially all of the Croatian and European fans that have started supporting me since I began training in Croatia. Also, my sponsors have been unbelievable. I couldn’t do this without the help of Alan Burns (Buel.com.au) and Visi Australasia supplements. Thanks BoxingScene for the interview.
