24.10.06 – WBO and IBF super-middleweight champion Joe Calzaghe and WBO cruiserweight champion Enzo Maccarinelli – plus promoter Frank Warren – proved a big hit in the Big Apple today (tues). The Welshmen met with the cream of the US boxing media in New York ahead of possible debuts in the States in 2007.
It marked the high point of a successful mini-tour for the pair, who also attended the WBO convention in Miami over the weekend and met with legend Oscar De La Hoya.
Calzaghe and Maccarinelli, who debuted on HBO last weekend in impressive style, met with the likes of George Kimball, Steve Farhood, and Thomas Hauser in Shelley’s restaurant.
Also in attendance were US promoter Lou Di Bella and senior HBO executives, including Sports President Ross Greenburg.
Former Showtime chief, Jay Larkin, who is now a consultant to Sports Network in America, was present too.
“It was fantastic to have such a turnout from the American press, who seemed delighted with both Joe and Enzo,” said Warren.
“I think these two guys can definitely crack America, because their exciting styles will make them friends wherever they go.”
Calzaghe added: “It’s nice to come to the States and get the recognition I’ve worked so hard to acheive.
“It was a buzz to see all the big guys from the New York papers at the press conference as well as Ross Greenburg from HBO.
“They seem really keen on me coming over here next year for a fight.
“Now I’ve got to move to the next level and prove I can win big fights over and over again.
“I’d love to fight over here next year, and appearing at Madison Square Garden would be fantastic with my Italian-Celtic heritage.
“I’ve had a few people coming up to me in the street asking for my autograph, and that’s a bit crazy, but it shows they have been watching my fights.”
With the pair aiming to headline a big card televised by HBO in February, holding the fight in America is one option open to Warren, although a massive night at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, is another.
America would suit Maccarinelli, who said he would be keen on not only defending his WBO title in the States, but chasing the other three major belts as well.
“I’d love to fight (WBC, WBA and IBF champion) O’Neill Bell over here in February,” said Maccarinelli.
“I’ve really enjoyed my trip to America, and I’ve been surprised at the number of people who have seen me fight, including Di Bella and De La Hoya.
“Winning the WBO world title has opened a lot of doors for me, but it’s important to keep my feet on the ground and not get too carried away.”