06.05.04 – In boxing, it is customary to congratulate a fighter after a fight, but Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter, 18-0 (17), is not a normal fighter. The pulverizing young heavyweight says he wants to congratulate next opponent Charles Shufford before the festivities have even begun. “I congratulate Charles Shufford for being man enough to face me and I look forward to a spectacular performance,” said the Nigerian powerhouse during a break in training.
Peter and Shufford, 20-5 (9), will headline the third installment of Cedric Kushner Promotions’ Heavyweight Heroes: the Search for the Next Great Heavyweight on May 17 from Bally’s Las Vegas Events Center,
It’s been a frustrating time for Peter, who says he’s more than ready to bring some much-needed power and excitement back to the ho-hum heavyweight picture. The problem is that no one seems eager to face the up-and-coming slugger.
“Charles Shufford is the man who beat the man who beat the man, WBO Champion Lamon Brewster and that’s a very good step up for Samuel that will test where we are with his development,” said manager Ivalyo Gotzev. “I’m glad Charles was man enough to take the fight because a lot of opponents have been turning Samuel down. It’s going to be a great night and we’re very excited about the opportunity.”
Life is going to get very strange in the near future for the world’s top heavyweights… first, they’re going to have a nightmare and THEN they’re going to sleep.
Samuel Peter Fast Facts and Quotes
As a super-heavyweight amateur, Samuel Peter was a quarter-finalist in the 2000 Olympic Games for Nigeria. He lost a decision to fellow contender Paolo Vidoz, however, Peter had already previously destroyed eventual silver medalist Mukhtarkhan Dildabekov and fought to a close decision with gold medalist Audley Harrison.
“Of all the prospects, (Samuel Peter) has insiders excited the most because of his relentless style, hand speed and power. Reminds some of fellow Nigerian and onetime top contender Ike Ibeabuchi.”
Dan Rafael, USA Today
“I’ve known he was going to be the champ some day since the 2000 Olympics in Sydney Australia. When everybody else was chasing the US fighters, I went straight to the best heavyweight prospect in the world. I was much more excited about him than (Gold Medalist) Audley Harrison, who had just an ok style. With his incredible power, he has much more potential as a professional.”
Ivalyo Gotzev
Samuel Peter is a well-respected role model in the Nigerian community of Las Vegas. A devout Christian, he lives a very clean life with no drinking, or smoking. He was born on 9-6-80, stands 6-foot-1 and weighs approximately 240 lb. He is promoted by Duva Boxing.