Randy Griffin Fights for Family and Country Against Sturm

In a fight takes place the day after America's birthday, Philadelphia-born #1 WBA middleweight contender Randy Griffin, 24-1-3 (12)KO's is chomping at the bit to again face WBA 160-pound belt-holder Felix Sturm, 29-2-1 (13)KO's on Saturday night at the Gerry Weber Stadium in Halle, Germany.

It's a rematch of a fight that ended in a draw the first time the two locked horns in September 2007 and it's taking place at the same venue.

The Greek Sportsbook has Sturm listed as a -300 betting favorite to retain his title against Griffin whom they list as a +250 underdog.  The last time the two met, many in the German audience (and one of the official judges) tabbed Griffin as the winner.  

"I feel I'm in very good condition and have prepared myself very well," said the 32-year old Griffin at a recent press conference. 

Griffin is practically unknown in the United States, but he does hold an amateur win over Jermain Taylor.  While many American fighters have been reluctant to travel to Germany, Griffin has no such trepidation.

"I owe Felix for the chance of a rematch," said Griffin. "I've closely analyzed the last fight and know I can do better to bring down Felix. I predict the tenth or eleventh round and that's my plan." 

As for Sturm, 29, who is always in tremendous physical condition, he wanted the rematch and the only reason it's happening is because he gave his people the green light to make it happen.

"I've looked the fight from last year a few times. Nobody can be content with a draw, especially not me. That's why I immediately asked for a rematch,"  said Sturm who is a former WBO middleweight belt holder and a two time owner of the WBA title. 

"This fight will be the most interesting in the middleweight division and I'm glad that it came about," continued Sturm. "In the past few months I've become stronger and have learned from my mistakes. From the beginning I'll set the tempo and throw many more punches. I want to get past this. I'm enormously motivated because this fight is all important for me and I feel at ease and relaxed."

Griffin has many reasons why he is gunning for a victory on Saturday night. If he wins it means that he'll realize a long held dream of winning a world title.  A victory would set up a lucrative third fight with Sturm which would help his financial status.  Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, he's doing it for a personal reason.

"I think a lot about my family because my father passed away last year on Christmas Eve," said Griffin. "That's my additional motivation."