30.11.06 – If only one could turn back time. There is nothing that former European Champion Michel Trabant regrets more than “the biggest mistake of my life” – taking banned substances prior to his last fight in May. Half a year later, he now hopes to put his career back on track by joining the Sauerland Camp. “I still feel very sorry about what has happened and wish I could make it undone,” Trabant vowed. “But I have learned from my mistakes. I am very happy that Sauerland give me a second chance.”
The welterweight, once considered one of Germany´s biggest boxing talents, boasts a professional record of 42 wins and two losses (19 KOs). He won the European welterweight championship in April 2002 when he outpointed Christian Bladt in Poland. One year later, his bid for the vacant WBA welterweight title came up short when Jose Antonio Rivera claimed a points verdict to hand him the first loss of his career. Frederic Klose then inked a points decision in July 2004 in a fight for the European crown. The 28-year-old has been out of the ring since May 2006. The bout against Marco Cattikas was ruled a no contest due to a positive doping probe.
Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer believes Trabant has learned his lesson. “He has made a very reasonable impression in the talks we have held,” said Meyer. “We are sure he will never commit the same mistake again. That´s why were are happy to grant him a second chance.”
Trabant has filed a clemency plea against the German federation´s one-year ring ban. “I have never made any mistakes during the 12 years I have been pro,” Trabant vowed. “That is certainly not an excuse, but I really hope for a second chance.”
Trabant will be coached by star trainer Ulli Wegner, who has also led Sven Ottke, Markus Beyer and Arthur Abraham to glory. “It was a good decision to switch camp and coach,” said the former Universum fighter. “It will change my life completely. I can´t wait to get back into the ring.”