By Joe Harrison
On Friday, September 21st, Octavius James’ One In A Million Inc. presents “United We Stand” at the Radisson at Star Plaza in Merrillville, Indiana. In the main event, undefeated middleweight Michael Walker (16-0-1, 10 KOs) returns to the ring following his remarkable second round knockout of former Olympian, Dante Craig, on the undercard of HBO Pay-Per-View’s August 4th broadcast. Recently, Octavius James and Michael Walker shared their thoughts on the upcoming fight card.
BoxingScene.com – Is the Sept 21st show all set and ready to go?
Octavius James – Yeah, it’s all set. Michael Walker is our big event. He’s coming off a pretty big win with his knockout over Dante Craig. It was a tremendous bout that he was in, and he’s always in great condition.
BoxingScene.com – What does the future hold for Michael Walker? Is it true that you intend on putting him on Shobox?
Octavius James – Yeah, he needs the chance to show his talent and that he can become champion. I’ve always believed in his talent. He’s never a day behind. I think this guy’s for real.
BoxingScene.com – Are there any specific names that you’re looking to have Walker face?
Octavius James – We negotiate with different names. We try to find a good name, and if it makes sense, then it happens.
I definitely think Michael can become champion, and that there are big things to come for Michael Walker in 2008.
BoxingScene.com – Michael, how’s your training going? Do you feel prepared?
Michael Walker – Yes, this is some of the best training I’ve been through.
BoxingScene.com – Your next opponent is William Johnson. Back in June, Johnson scored a decision over then undefeated Darryl Salmon in Salmon's hometown of Atlanta. Do you feel that Johnson poses a threat to you?
Michael Walker – I’m the threat. I’ve trained hard, so I’ll be the threat.
BoxingScene.com – Do you think this will be a tactical bout or a real slugfest? What happens in this fight?
Michael Walker – We could get in there and be tactical but I don’t like that. I don’t think it’ll be a tactical fight. I want to get in there and mix it up. Then it should be a big fight.
BoxingScene.com – I’m sure you normally don’t look past your next opponent, but is there anyone in particular that you’d like to face, or are there any goals that you’re looking to achieve?
Michael Walker – I want to face the best. I want the top names in the division.
BoxingScene.com – Is there anything extra you would like to share for readers your fans and the readers at BoxingScene.com?
Michael Walker – I’m coming. Here I come. Better be ready. If they’re not ready, they better stay home.
Tickets, priced at $100 VIP, $75 VIP ringside, $50 ringside and $25 general admission, are available from Star Plaza Theatre box office at (219-769-6600) or from any Ticket Master location at (312-559-1212) or www.TicketMaster.com .
The Radisson is located at 800 E. 81st Ave. in Merrillville, IN. Doors open at 7 p.m. First bout at 8 p.m.