25.04.05 – Up and coming heavyweight contender Alexander Dimitrenko (22) will take on former cruiserweight champion Al “Ice” Cole at Volkswagenhalle in Braunschweig, Germany. Cole was holding the IBF cruiserweight title from 1992 to 1995 while making five successful defenses. Since 1996 Cole has exlusively fought in the heavyweight division. “I know Cole quite well,” coach Fritz Sdunek said. “He is a top contender, even though he’s over 40.”
Among others, Cole (34-14-3, 16 KO’s), fought against Hasim Rahman, Lance Whitaker, Corrie Sanders and Jameel McCline. Cole used to be sparring partner for Vitali Klitschko. “This is the reason why I know him so well. But I’m still going to rewatch a few videos,” Sdunek said.
Alexander Dimitrenko, (18-0, 11 KO’s) is holding the IBF Youth world title at heavyweight. However, whereas the fight against Cole is scheduled for ten rounds, Dimitrenko’s belt won’t be on the line because the age limit to contest for this title is 23 (and Cole is already 41).
“Recently we could see that Alexander has the stamina to dominate a fight over ten rounds,” Sdunek said.
Dimitrenko retained his IBF Youth title on March 5 against American Chris Koval with a unanimous decision over ten rounds. However, the Ukrainian had to climb off the canvas in round two to hold on to his title.
“To get off the canvas after being knocked down for the first time in my career, this made me strong,” Dimitrenko stated. “I was unattentive for a moment. The punch hurt me but fortunately I’m able to take a shot and come back.”
The eagerly awaited main event of that evening is the WBO super middleweight world championship between Joe Calzaghe and Mario Veit. After having a short battle of words on the internet both opponents focused on a strong and silent preparation: Calzaghe in Cardiff, Veit in Zinnowitz, Usedom, Germany.
The contracts have been signed and the last week of sparring is known for being the toughest. Next week both fighters will meet at the press conference, the public workout and the official weigh-in.
Dates to be announced shortly on www.boxing.de.
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