by James Slater: It seems fans can mark October 16th as the official date for the talked-of heavyweight rumble between WBC ruler Vitali Klitschko and former lineal champ Shannon Briggs. The fight – intriguing to some, an obvious mismatch to others – has been in the works for a while now, but today, on sites such as Fightnews, ESPN.com and others, the match-up was officially said to be set.
According to ESPN.com, the fight will go ahead in Hamburg, Germany. This is according to Klitschko manager Bernd Boente, who spoke to Dan Rafael today, Tuesday.
“Contracts are signed, everything is done,” Boente said.
Briggs, now aged 38 and with a pro ledger of 51-5-1(45) has been craving a shot at either one of the two Klitschko brothers for a long time now, and at last he has what he wants. But what’s that old saying? Be careful what you wish for, it might come true!
Briggs, who controversially out-pointed last night’s On The Ropes guest on ESB’s radio show, George Foreman, will be seen as a considerable underdog against the man known as “Dr. Iron Fist,” even though the reigning WBC champ is a year older than he is at age 39. Briggs has also been outspoken about how both Klitschko brothers have failed miserably in their attempts at giving the fans value for money, and “The Cannon” has vowed to take a belt back to the U.S in style. Can he do it?
Briggs certainly sounds confident going into the now set October date.
“I tried for a long time to get one of the Klitschkos,” Briggs said to ESPN.com. “Now it’s time to write history. Most of their opponents [enter swear word hear!] in their pants before they enter the ring. But I will put a lot of pressure on Klitschko. Klitschko can look at his WBC belt for a couple more weeks. After October 16th, it belongs to me.”
You can’t fault Briggs for at least getting people talking. Okay, most experts and fans feel Vitali will win in just under two months time, but who would bet their house on it? Also, Briggs is unlikely to go in there with any fear. As big and as powerful as he is, the New Yorker has at least a legitimate puncher’s chance. And can you name another upcoming heavyweight title bout that is as interesting as the October 16th bout?
Klitschko may well win in October, but something tells me Briggs will give him a few scares along the way before he does so. Could Briggs even become the first man to floor Vitali?