Koval ready to battle Hayes Tuesday night

The heavyweight fight is at Mountaineer Race Track and Gaming Resort.
By BOB ROTH
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
BOARDMAN -- "If a guy keeps coming after me in the same manner that Mike Tyson does than I am going to have to keep my left jab in his face and if that doesn't keep him off me, then he will have to experience my right hand."
This was the reply from Austintown heavyweight Chris Koval about how he would fight his opponent, Chicago heavyweight Thomas Hayes, Tuesday night.
The 22-year-old Hayes has 10-1 record, which includes six knockouts, and is trained and managed by Kevin Rooney, who trained Tyson.
Hayes is similar in build to Tyson and under Rooney's tutelage his ring style is similar to Tyson, which could make him a true test for Koval who is undefeated in 11 bouts since turning pro in January.
In his run only one opponent has gone the distance with Koval, who will fight Hayes in an eight-round heavyweight co-feature at Mountaineer Race Track and Gambling Resort.
The fight will be televised by ESPN2.
The main event will have Tye Fields (28-1, 12 KOs) against Sherman "Tank" Williams (23-7-1).
Caught on tape
Koval said he has seen film of Hayes in action.
"I look forward to fighting him because he will keep me busy and it will be a test for me," said Koval, "but if he is going to come after me with no letup, which is his style, then my left jab and rights to the body will have to be my answer."
Tom Cordell, Koval's trainer, said his fighter is in excellent condition.
"He is definitely in the best shape of his pro career," said Cordell. "He has been very disiplined with his road work and his sparring sessions have been intense."
Two of those sessions have been with undefeated middleweight Kelly Pavlik, who also is preparing for an upcoming bout. Another pair of sessions were with heavyweight Brian Minto of Butler, Pa.
Pat Nelson, Koval's manager, said getting on television was important.
"When you are trying to build a legitimate prospect in the heavyweight division, or as far as that goes anywhere in pro boxing, then a first appearance on national television is so very important," he said.
"There is that same importance to this fight for Chris because I hopeful that an impressive win Tuesday night will lead to a lucrative and long term promotional deal."
Tickets for the event can be purchased at Salty Grogs (330-726-6690).