Boxing

Joe Mesi Impresses Unbeaten Hartzog In Camp

05.09 - One of the interesting people helping to prepare Joe Mesi for his head on collision with DaVarryl Williamsson on September 27 in Buffalo is undefeated heavyweight Preston Hartzog. Hartzog, 10-0, stands 6'5" tall and weighs 265 pounds. The 27-year old native of Bogalusa, Louisiana, is providing quality sparring for Mesi.

Hartzog assisted Vitali Klitschko by helping the Ukrainian prepare for his recent title fight with Lennox Lewis. The champ narrowly escaped with his crown.

Hartzog has provided similar service to Michael Moorer, Lionel Butler and James Toney. "You really know it when these guys hit you," said Hartzog.

Hartzog is impressed with Mesi and gives him high marks for punching power and conditioning. "Joe Mesi," he said. "Man, he can crack! He's got a helluva left hook and great uppercut. He's also got a very good left jab."

Hartzog said that Mesi's disciplined training methods have a definite affect on everyone in camp. "He's a very positive influence. He trains his butt off, he really does. And, that makes everyone in camp work harder." Hartzog said he remembers watching Joe box at national tournaments when both were amateur boxers. "We used to say that if we had to fight Joe Mesi we'd better be prepared." But, Mesi and Hartzog never faced each other in competition.

Hartzog did fight Williamson in the amateurs. It occurred at a time when Williamson was knocking everybody out. "He didn't knock me out but he won the decision and a state title," said Hartzog.

Hartzog explained that he had recently been discharged from the military after completing 4 ½ years of service, included duty in Croatia. He was more into celebrating his return home than training for the tournament. Still, he won a couple of qualifying fights to reach Williamson in the finals. Hartzog blamed himself for using the wrong strategy in the fight. "I knew Williamson tried to knock everyone out. I wasn't in top shape so I decided to take it to him. I tried to knock out Williamson."

Looking back, Hartzog said he should have gone with his strength and attempted to outbox Williamson that night. "All I had to do was box like I was capable of doing and I could have beaten him. If you shut down his right hand, I think you've got him," he said.

Hartzog said he has great respect for both Williamson and Mesi. He also said he thinks Mesi has a good chance of winning. "There is no heavyweight fight in the world that can truly be predicted," he said. "The punching power of heavyweights is shocking and a fight can change with a single blow. If it's a close fight it's anybody's guess. But, Joe's got great head movement and is always busy. Plus, he's in fine tune shape. I give the edge to Joe."

0 comments
 


Bookmark and Share

 

If you detect any issues with the legality of this site, problems are always unintentional and will be corrected with notification.
The views and opinions of all writers expressed on eastsideboxing.com do not necessarily state or reflect those of the Management.
Copyright © 2001- 2015 East Side Boxing.com - Privacy Policy