Abraham in Top Shape Ahead of Title Defense

Posted by David M. Lee on 06.23.2009

King Arthur promises tough night for his opponent.


Photo courtesy of Saureland PR

IBF middleweight champion Arthur Abraham is in confident mood ahead of his title defense in Germany this Saturday against Mahir Oral. The undefeated champion took part in a public work-out, along with Oral, in Berlin's Axel-Springer Passage earlier today and told reporters how excited he was about defending his crown in Berlin. "I am in great shape", Arthur (29-0, 23 KOs) said. "I really look forward to fighting in Berlin. It will be a tough night for Mahir Oral."

However, the challenger Oral (25-1, 10 KOs) is hopeful of springing an upset. "If I make the most of my advantage in height and reach, everything will be possible," he said.

Also participating in today's public work-out was IBF International middleweight champion Sebastian Sylvester (30-3, 15 KOs) and former world title challenger Lajuan Simon (21-1, 12 KOs), who face each other in the chief-support in Berlin. "The winner will be the number two in the IBF rankings. This is a great opportunity," Sylvester said. "I will take care of business on Saturday."

The Berlin card also features Alexander Frenkel (17-0, 13 KOs) hoping to register his 18th win as a pro when he takes on Argentina's Rodolfo De Dominicis (15-1, 11 KOs) and somebody's "0" must go when Frank Shabani (17-0, 6 KOs) goes up against Leonard Bundu (18-0, 6 KOs) for the EU welterweight title.