October 28th could be a crucial date in the lives of Simon Kean and Arslanbek Makhmudov.
• Also read: Change of opponent: Makhmudov had to adapt quickly
The two boxers from the Eye of the Tiger stable will then be in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to take part in a boxing gala that could change their respective lives.
Kean (23-1, 22 KOs) faces New Zealander Joseph Parker (32-3, 22 KOs), while Makhmudov (17-0-0, 16 KOs) faces American junior Anthony Wright (20-4-1). , 17 KOs).
“This is perhaps one of the biggest galas of the year, so I have to use it to show the world what I’m capable of,” stressed Makhmudov during a public training session held at his trainer Marc Ramsay’s gym on Thursday.
“They say every fight is important, but this one is a big assignment and I’m ready to take it on,” Kean added.
Simon Kean Photo Martin Chevalier
to develop market
Saudi Arabia is not the first place that comes to mind when it comes to boxing and Simon Kean confirms this.
“Of course I didn’t expect my first big fight to be in Saudi Arabia. I was thinking more of a typical boxing venue like the United States or England.”
But Marc Ramsay believes it is a market that needs to be tapped.
“It is a very interesting market for us because there is a lot of money. It’s an opportunity to fight large-scale battles and be seen.”
“Surely great performances in such a big sports world will help the team, which has done a lot of work to gain credibility,” mentions promoter Camille Estephan, who is already thinking in the longer term.
“We had discussions about future fights. Since there is a date set for December 23rd, if there are big wins, we plan to do it again in December and possibly March.
Camille Estephan Photo Martin Chevalier
On the map
This stay in the Arabian Peninsula could therefore allow the two boxers to stand out, especially in a gala consisting mainly of heavyweight fights, which is quite rare.
“If Simon beats Joseph Parker, it will be an important calling card and he will become a mandatory opponent for the biggest names,” estimates Estephan.
“Arslanbek is already number 3 in the world and I think he will become a crowd favorite considering he has visited Mecca several times, he is Muslim and he has a country to conquer.”
Marc Ramsay agrees and believes this is a chance for the two boxers to open doors for each other.
“We want to make these people want to invite them back and organize something more long-term for the future. We can also leave a calling card for the other heavyweights who will be in attendance as it is almost exclusively a heavyweight card.
Before his own
Makhmudov hails from southern Russia near Georgia and will have a rare opportunity to box closer to home.
“I’m looking forward to going there because it’s closer to home than Canada and friends will be there.
“It’s a good opportunity for me to show everyone what I can do.”