By Alexey Sukachev
One of the biggest fights in Russian boxing history is just three weeks away. On May 21, Alexander Povetkin (30-1, 22 KOs), a former champion and currently #1 rated heavyweight (under the WBC standard), will collide with American Deontay Wilder (36-0, 35 KOs) in a fight of epic proportions in Moscow, Russia. Not only is Wilder’s WBC belt will be at stake but also a position of one of two best heavyweights in the world (the other being a winner of Tyson Fury vs. Wladimir Klitschko rematch).
On the eve of the second biggest clashes of his career, 2004 Athens Olympics super heavyweight gold medalist spoke to Vsenabox.ru about the upcoming match-up in his trademark measured and laconic style.
— Your first thoughts, when you found out that fight will happen?
— Of course, I was glad. That’s why I have normal thoughts about it (smiling). Our way to this fight was long enough and finally it will take place.
— Are you still sticking to your usual philosophy before this fight: “The most difficult opponent is the next one”?
— Yes, no changes here: the most difficult opponent is your next.
— Before this fight, Wilder said that he is going to use Wladimir Klitchko’s tactics to help him win. Are you ready to counter the possibility of clinching for most of the fight, if it will be necessary?
— I was a different fighter during our fight with Klitchko. Now everything is different, and I'm ready to deal with the clinching in a different way. I have enough physical strength.
— Everyone noticed Wilder’s unusual activity before your fight: he is calling himself “Black Rocky”, making a lot of posts in social networks and giving interviews on a regular basis. What do you think he is being so active?
— Maybe he is nervous.