25.03.04 – By Ike Enwereuzor – www.Jacboxing.com – He survived a first round knock down in his last fight and went on to win. Hot heavyweight prospect Cisse “Cool C” Salif now (13-3-1- 10KO’s) fighting out of New York City, had his first fight of the year on March 19, at Sycuan Casino in EL Cajon, California. He improved his record to 13 wins, 3 losses against Heavyweight Tipton Walker, who dropped to 13 wins, 7 losses. Salif was down in round 1 but got right up to score a 5th round knockout. Now, he wants to step up his by facing top 15 heavyweights.
Ike: Could you please describe your fight with Tipton Walker?
Salif: He was a good fighter. He lost to Kelvin Davis and he can box pretty good. He had been training for this fight, while I was informed at last minute to replace a boxer. It was a good fight and he had over hundred amateur fights. Tipton dropped me in the first round. I don’t know how he did it, I just found myself on the canvas. I got up right away. He is a good puncher, so he had me down. James Toney was at the fight yelling at me, which really motivated me. I stopped him in round 5.
Ike: What is next for you now?
Salif: I’m in shape and ready to take on my next opponent soon. I may fight in April. I’m talking with Don King Productions to see what they have for me because I want to keep busy. I’m looking to see if I can get a fight against Clifford Ethienne, Joe Mesi, Juan Gomez, Derrick Jefferson, Michael Grant, Jameel McCline or even the Klitschkos. I’m ready for the top 10. We’re ready to mix it up with these guys. Boza Edwards was in my corner during my last fight, so it was really great working with Boza. We’re looking into fighting Anthony Thompson. He’s a southpaw with over 20 wins, I think.
Ike: What did you learn from your last fight with Walker?
Salif: I learned to be more focused. I’m ready to fight any heavyweight in the world. Like I keep saying, the heavyweight division is wide open. I hope Don King’s office can see that I have what it takes to be the next heavyweight champion. I have worked with the best, like former world champions Mike Tyson, Hasim Rahman and more. I was working with James Toney for his fight with Jameel McCline, but fight was called off due to Toney’s injury.
Ike: Prediction for Byrd-Golota?
Salif: I think Chris Byrd will beat Golota if he trains for the fight. I know Byrd will frustrate him.
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