HANNOVER, Germany (CMC):
JAMAICAN HEAVYWEIGHT boxer Owen Beck goes for heavyweight glory and a belated birthday present when he tackles giant World Boxing Association (WBA) champion Nikolai Valuev.
The undefeated Valuev, with an impressive record of 44-0 with 31 knockouts and challenger Beck (25-2 18 knockouts), were both on good behaviour at the final press conference before their collision tonight at the TUI Arena in Hannover, Germany.
Beck celebrated his 30th birthday on Wednesday and in a tame pre-fight press conference, Valuev congratulated the challenger on his birthday, and the Tennessee-based Caribbean fighter thanked the Russian for the birthday wishes.
Beck added that he wants to give himself the best birthday gift of all, a world title belt.
Valuev declared his determination to keep the title in this first defence after beating American John Ruiz for the belt last December.
"It is maybe easier to capture a title than to defend it. But I am well prepared and optimistic that I will also be a world champion after the fight," said Valuev, the heaviest and tallest champion in boxing history.
Valuev, at seven feet and 330 pounds, has a 10-inch height advantage. He is in top shape for the bout and his Ulli Wegner expects a victory.
"In the last week, Niko had worn out a series of sparring partners. Naturally, you shouldn't underestimate an opponent, but he is quite a clear favourite," Wegner stated.
Beck gave respect to the 32-year-old Valuev, describing him as "a great champion".
Beck will be trying to become the second Jamaican to become world boxing heavyweight champion after Trevor Berbick, who defeated American Pinklon Thomas in March 1986 to capture the World Boxing Council (WBC) belt.
