Swedish heavyweight talent Otto Wallin (11-0, 9 KOs) is eager to impress when he takes on former Olympian and World Amateur Championship silver medallist Oleksiy Mazikin (14-11-2, 4 KOs) on Saturday, June 20 at the Ballerup Super Arena in Copenhagen.
‘’Mazikin is a serious opponent. He will be coming here to fight and coming here to win,’’ said the Sundsvall-fighter. ‘’I've had some fights where my opponents didn’t come to do anything but survive. These guys can actually be more difficult to fight against. They’re what we call spoilers and if you’re not careful they can make you look a little stupid.
‘’Mazikin is not that type of fighter. He’s been in the ring with some top guys. I’ve been studying his fight with Christian Hammer and he did a great job. I think our styles will blend well, and I’m looking forward to a tough fight, but I’m confident I can win and look good doing it!’’
With a victory on Saturday night, Wallin can improve to 12-0. The 24 year-old is enjoying his work, and keen to remain active as he looks to work his way into the world rankings.
‘’At this stage of my career it’s important to stay active,’’ said Wallin. ‘’I keep myself sharp in the gym and I’m always ready to fight! I’ve had a great year so far, with two good wins from two good stoppages, but I’m looking forward to showing more of my skills on Saturday. That’s doesn’t mean I can rule out another early stoppage. You can never guarantee a knockout, but if the opportunity comes I’m going to take it!’’
In preparation for his eight-round clash with Mazikin, Wallin has been sparring his Team Sauerland stable-mate Micki Nielsen, under the watchful eye of coach Joey Gamache.
"I've had really good sparring with Micki,’’ said Wallin. ‘’He might be fighting at cruiserweight and not as big as me, but trust me he hits as hard if not harder than many heavyweights. He has helped get me into top shape and I feel well prepared for whatever Mazikin brings on Saturday.’’
Wallin joins a star-studded Scandinavian line up for the Nordic Fight Night on June 20 in Copenhagen. Swedish light welterweight Anthony Yigit (13-0-1, 5 KOs) faces tough Englishman Tony Owen (16-3, 3 KOs), while Danish super middleweight Patrick Nielsen (25-1, 12 KOs) defends his WBA International title against Charles Adamu (23-6, 17 KOs) and Norwegian talent Tim-Robin Lihaug (12-1, 7 KOs) meets domestic rival Arne Ernstsen (7-0, 3 KOs). All the action will be shown live on TV10 in Sweden. Tickets are available via billetlugen.dk.