By Marlynda Millerick – On May 15, 2010 Former World Lightweight Champion Nate Campbell will be facing top contender Victor Ortiz in a Jr. Welterweight bout at Madison Square Garden as part of the Paulie Malignaggi/Amir Khan show being featured on HBO’s Boxing After Dark. I recently had the chance to talk with The Galaxxy Warrior to discuss his upcoming fight and more.
MM: Nate, first and foremost, thank you for taking the time to talk with me. It’s been a long hard road for you, especially in the last two years, but you have proven time and time again just how resilient you can be. Obviously, you have a lot to gain in this upcoming fight, as a win could set you up for a title shot by the end of the year. What do you consider to be your biggest advantage over Victor Ortiz, and how will you utilize it on May 15th?
NC: I have more experience, have been in bigger fights, fought better fighters. I’m a three-time World Champion, I’m fearless. He’s never been in with a guy like me..
MM: There is such a mixed reaction amongst fans when discussing this match-up. Some think that the youth and strength of Ortiz will prove too much for you, while others question his heart and predict that he will be broken down and schooled by the tough slick vet. How hard do you feel this fight will be, and do you think you can apply enough pressure to possibly make him quit?
NC: I’m the type of guy that will make you doubt yourself. You know what, everyone said the same thing about Juan Diaz, he’s too young, too strong, etc.. And look what I did to him. Who cares if he quits or not, I don’t. I will beat him for 12 rounds.
MM: A great tool in preparing for a fight is watching footage so that you can pick up on habits or holes in your opponent’s performance. If you watched Ortiz vs. Maidana you could pick up on his tendency to leave himself open for that straight right. Assuming you watched his recent not-so-competitive tune-up with Hector Alatorre, what if anything did you pick up on about your opponent? And more importantly, do you think he could have learned anything valuable from that display to prepare himself for you?
NC: What has he shown? Flaws! I will exploit his flaws. I have been in this game a long time, I am prepared mentally. Ortiz is kind of a bully, but he can’t bully me.
MM: You’re known for being pretty outspoken when it comes to what you feel is right from wrong. After dealing with that controversial TKO decision in your fight with Tim Bradley last August (which was rightfully overturned to a no-contest by the CSAC), and some harsh criticism for using the rules of the game to your advantage.. How do you feel today about the outcome, and about Bradley?
NC: Yeah, people said I quit. Listen, I won’t speak ill without cause, will never speak a lie. Bradley tried to bilk the situation.
MM: What is the one thing that keeps you grounded and focused, particularly during times of adversity?
NC: I was an ordained Minister at the age of 23 and i did what they call “backsled” out of church. I love boxing, but with it comes vices, and I’ve done a lot of toxic stuff. So, on this past birthday (03/07) I reaffirmed my relationship with God and the Ministry. I’ve also had to reaffirm my lifestyle. Just yesterday I became real angry about something and had to realize that God is still working on me. I enjoy listening to the words of Marvin Sapp, the greatest evangelist/singer. I’m a radical when it comes to belief and faith, that’s how I stay grounded. I’ve made money and lost money. I’ve been successful, I’ve been a champion, and I’ve had bad times. But I’m still here because God has blessed me. People have wanted me to fade away, but I’m still here.
MM: I recently learned a little fun fact about you, I heard that you have a love for collecting/restoring old cars. Is that a big passion of yours?
NC: Oh, I just love old cars! The 71 Chevelle, the El Camino, old VW Bugs, etc.. God Bless Ford, God Bless Chevy. The 426 is the greatest engine ever made. I like the small block Chevy Chevelle, the 302 Ford, etc.. I just love cars. I’m just as passionate about cars as I am boxing. Above all though, I am most passionate about God.
MM: I know you’re busy, so one last question. We’ve got Mayweather/Mosley on the horizon, care to make a prediction?
NC: Shane is a close personal friend, I love Shane. I think he has all the right tools to win, and that’s all I can say about it.
MM: Nate, it’s been a pleasure. Thank you for taking the time out to do this short Q&A with me. I wish you the best of luck on May 15th, and in all your future goals.
NC: I thank you. God Bless..