Fight fans will likely know the name Erkan Teper. The powerful 6’5” heavyweight from Germany scored what was initially viewed as an impressive 2nd-round KO over Britain’s David Price in July of last year. But later, Teper failed a drugs test and the win was changed to a no-decision by some (although not all). Price is still rightfully angered at the way he was cheated – only recently returning to the ring, picking up a win on May 29 and subsequently being reinstated in the top-15 with the IBF where he was ranked prior to the “loss.”
Teper was suspended for two years, officially at least, yet he will return to action in his native Germany tomorrow night, Sunday. 34-year-old Teper, 15-0(10) will face tough New Yorker Derric Rossy and Teper will supposedly be under scrutiny by the officials of the EBU. Still, with just under a year gone since the July 17 “win” over Price, many fans are sure to be angry at the way Teper has been allowed to box again so soon.
Rossy, in speaking with RingTV.com, said he is “ready” to fight and that he hopes “I don’t get screwed out of a win.” Rossy told Ring he feels Teper, with all eyes on him, “will be on his best behaviour,” in that he will fight clean, having taken no illegal substances – “but you never know,” Rossy added.
It is hoped Teper will undergo strict drug testing, both before and after the bout. Rossy, 30-11(14) and stopped only five times, is coming off a close decision loss to former WBC heavyweight champ Bermane Stiverne, who he decked and pushed mighty close in November of last year. Always willing to fight the best, often on short notice, Rossy can be expected to give Teper a rough night. Indeed, there will be no shortage of fight fans rooting for the 36-year-old, especially in light of Teper’s unfortunate cheating.
It would be very interesting to get David Price’s thoughts on tomorrow’s fight. And of it being allowed to take place.