Sebastian Sylvester will make a mandatory defense of his European middleweight title on April 12 when he takes on Javier Castillejo. Five days ago, the 27-year-old German (28-2, 13 KOs) clinched a unanimous points victory over Francois Bastient.
Experienced Castillejo last scored a KO victory over Mariano Natalio Carrera to become the mandatory challenger to WBA champion Felix Sturm. Whoever wins on April 12 will be hopeful to get a world title shot soon. “Castillejo is a tough guy,” Sylvester said. “But a win would put me in a great position for a world title fight. My goal is to become champion. And this is a great opportunity to move one step closer.”
A venue for the clash has yet to be confirmed. However, it will certainly be in Germany. “We today agreed with Castillejo´s management that we will stage the fight,” Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer said. “We´re very happy to give the Hurricane the chance to fight in front of his fans.”
Castillejo (62-7, 42 KOs) made himself a name in Germany by stopping then-champion Felix Sturm in the tenth round of their meeting back in July 2006. He lost the title in the rematch in April 2007. Sylvester knows the Spaniard will be a tough nut to crack. “He is very experienced and strong but I am sure I will beat him,” said the Hurricane.
