26.01.07 – Sauerland Event today unveiled the spectacular new signing of “Golden Boy” Mads Larsen, who has joined the Berlin-based promoters with immediate effect. A tedious lawsuit with his former promoter has kept the 33-year-old Dane (45-2, 37 KOs) out of the ring for over three years. “I´m thrilled to return to action and fight for Sauerland,” Larsen said after putting pen to paper in Germany´s capital on Friday. “Their professional set-up will help me to get back to the top.” ..
Larsen is no stranger to the German audience after dropping a close majority decision against WBA/IBF champion Sven Ottke back in September 2003. One month later, he defeated Danilo Haeussler in a fight for the European championship which spelled the last ring appearance to date. “I´m relieved that everything has been sorted out,” the super-middleweight star added. “I visited a few boxing stables but Sauerland impressed me the most.”
Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer was more than happy for Larsen to come on board. “If a world-class fighter such as Mads decides to join us, it makes us very proud,” he said. “It further adds to our excellent international reputation. We´re glad to help him on his way back to the top.” It was by chance that the pair met at Markus Beyer´s clash with Mikkel Kessler in October. “We had a coffee and soon found common ground,” Meyer explained.
Larsen will be trained by German coaching legend Ulli Wegner. “I´m looking forward to working with him,” said the southpaw. “He´s a true professional and I can learn a lot from him.” Likewise, Wegner is excited to help the Dane. “He is a top fighter and I am glad he decided to join us,” said the German coach of the year. “There is still a lot of boxing left in him. The best years are still ahead of Mads.”
The Golden Boy looks set to make his ring return in either March or April. “I´ve been training all the time and I´m in great shape. I´m looking forward to doing some sparring. Let´s see how long it will take me to get back in shape for a title fight.”