Sunday, January 20, 2008
What did you learn from your loss to Pavlik?
One thing I learned is I don’t like defeat. There were are lot of things in that fight I could have done different such as taking my time when I had him in trouble in the second round, going to the body, throwing uppercuts and relaxing more in my approach. I threw lot of wasted punches in the second round.
Does fighting at 166 pounds change your approach?
I can carry 166 pounds without any problem. I will approach this fight in better condition, [with] more focus and determine to come away with victory.
Your partnership with Emanuel Steward never seemed to work well. Why was that?
Emanuel is a Hall of Fame trainer and I learned a lot from Manny. He’s also a friend of mine, but the chemistry did not flow over from training camp to fight night. I guess chemistry can be like that sometimes.
Why did you choose Ozell Nelson, and what does he add to your approach?
Ozell has been with me since I was 13 years old. He’s the one who put everything together for me. He built the engine, now he will be sitting in the front seat driving the car. He knows me better than anyone and knows what buttons to push with me.”
How has your life changed since losing the titles?
Well, my life is my life. If there is anything that changed [it] is the fact that I lost the belts. I’m certainly more focused and determined to avenge my defeat.
Are you definitely planning to fight at super middleweight after this bout? Why?
Yes. I have been fighting at 160 pounds since I became a professional [in 2001]; it’s time to move up. I have a big body frame and there are some interesting fights at super middleweight.
Pavlik had a decided fan advantage in the last fight. Do you think that will change this time?
I have no idea, nor am I concerned about Kelly’s fan advantage.
Why do you think this fight will be different than the last one?
I have no excuses about the last fight. I lost the fight. I’m confident in my skills, ability and preparation for the fight that the outcome will be different.