Israil Madrimov claims James Metcalf offered no explanation for cancelling proposed fight
Undefeated super-welterweight sensation Israil Madrimov (9-0-1, 6KO) is currently ranked WBA #1 and was due to face world ranked, Brit boxer James Metcalf (25-2, 15KO) in January, but now reports that the fight will not be taking place.
Israil Madrimov spoke exclusively to sports.uz:
You are currently in Uzbekistan, how is training going?
"Yes, we did not stop training while in Uzbekistan. Now I am continuing the training camp together with the Uzbekistan national team at the Yangiabad base."
Can you provide any updates on your proposed championship fight in January?
"This is true, we were planning a fight for the world championship belt in London at the end of January. But the boxer who was supposed to fight me refused to fight. There is no concrete information yet, but we must be ready for battle. Therefore, we will continue the preparation process."
Who was the British boxer in question?
"Of course, my opponent was British James Metcalf, who is ranked 5th in the WBA. All were canceled close to the official announcement. He did not explain why he did not want to fight. Now, negotiations are being conducted with the boxers who are ranked next to me."
Is the fight that was first proposed for 2023?
"Yes, actually it should have been in November. But for some reason, it did not happen. My first fights were also 10 rounds. I have called out champions since I started my career. Since the last 4 or 5 fights, I went to the ring in eliminator matches and became the main mandatory challenger. But still, the fight for the championship belt was not given. I proved that I deserved it by winning the eliminator in my 5th fight. If [I have been] given a title fight, I will try my best to win and become world champion. This has been a dream of mine since my first fight. God willing, I am looking forward to the world championship fight. As long as the opponent and the date of the fight are clear. It doesn't matter who or where they are, we will show them all in the ring."
Are you heading back to the U.S again soon?
"It is not clear when I will leave. I will wait until the date of the fight is confirmed. I am on a regular diet. My weight is also good. I started the preparation part in September, it's still going on, I'm also following the diet, and my weight is normal."
Thank you and good luck in the championship fight?
"Thanks to you too. Keep supporting. I will bring the world championship belt to our homeland!"
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