IBF middleweight champion King Arthur Abraham (27-0, 22 KOs) is looking for his 28th win in as many fights when he takes on mandatory challenger Raul Marquez in Bamberg on October 4. Speaking at today´s official press conference in his home city, the 28-year-old said: “Marquez is a very experienced and tough boxer. I expect a hard-fought battle that will go the full distance but if there is a chance to win by knockout I`ll go for it.” Back in June, Abraham and Marquez shook hands following their successful fights in Hollywood, Florida. While King Arthur knocked out Edison Miranda in the fourth round, Marquez (41-3, 29 KOs) defeated highly-rated Giovanni Lorenzo in a title eliminator. “I could not watch the fight live as I was warming up for my own bout but of course I have watched the tape and analysed it with my coach,” Abraham stated. “I know about his strengths. I will be prepared.”
Coach Ulli Wegner is full of respect for Marquez and warned everyone not to take the 37-year-old challenger lightly. “He is a very strong opponent,” he said. “Arthur needs to be on alert. But the preparation has been going very well. The victories in the ring have helped Arthur to mature. His attitude in practice is perfect.” It will be a special fight for Abraham as it was in Bamberg where he started his boxing career and also gave his comeback after breaking his jaw, knocking out Sebastien Demers in the third round in May 2007. “It is great to come back here,” he said. “I am really looking forward to it.”
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09-05-2008, 07:28 PM
Abraham ready for Marquez! 
