Oktay Urkal is preparing for a hot battle in the heat of San Juan, Puerto Rico where he takes on WBA welterweight champion Miguel Angel Cotto on March 3. "That will be a tough fight," said the 37-year-old mandatory challenger. "But I am ready. It´s not the first time that I´m in the same ring with a world-class fighter."
Urkal (38-3, 12 KOs) proved his class in June 2001 when he dropped a close points decision against WBA/WBC light-welterweight champion Kostya Tszyu despite fighting with a broken jaw during the last rounds. "Just like Cotto Tszyu had a great record with a lot of KOs," said Urkal. "I have learned from that experience."
Urkal worked hard to earn two more world title fights against Vivian Harris, who controversially won the first duel before stopping his opponent in the second battle. "It won´t happen again," said the former European Champion. "Getting four world title shots tells you something about my heart and my class. I am in great shape."
10,000 fans are expected to support unbeaten Cotto in his home country, but Urkal is confident he can make something happen. "The ring in Puerto Rico will be no different from the rings Germany," he vowed. "I have faith in my speed and shape. I will try to put him under pressure even though I expect him to be quite aggressive."
