Reigning WBC and IBF Light-Welterweight Champion Devon Alexander made his second WBC and first IBF Title defense against German-based Ukrainian Andriy Kotelnik on Saturday night at the Scottrade Center in St Loius, Missouri.
Since turning pro in 2004, Alexander “The Great” has amassed an impressive 20-0 (13 KO’s) record. However, he became prominent with his 2008 landslide points win over the experienced former WBO Champion DeMarcus Corley.
In 2009, Devon faced former WBC Champion Junior Witter, for now, vacant strap, and dominated the 35-year-old over eight rounds. When Witter retired with a hand injury, there were no doubts when the scorecards were totaled.
Earlier this year, Alexander took on two–time IBF Welterweight Champion Juan Urango in a mouth-watering unification clash. He produced a devastating uppercut in the eighth round and finished Urango with another flurry of punches.
Kotelnik, who lost his WBA Title to the dominant Amir Khan in his last outing with one judge, Juan Manual Garcia Reyes, not even awarding him a round, will be looking to get his career back on track quickly but faces a challenging task against the unified champ.
“In the future, I am willing to fight all the guys who say they are the best…because at the end of the day, the best will prevail.”– Devon Alexander.
12 Rounds with Devon Alexander
(ROUND 1) When and how did you get into boxing, Devon?
“Well, Phil, my coach started a gym at my elementary school, and I wanted to go, but my mom was nervous about me going at first. Ultimately, she let me go; I have been doing it since. I was seven years old.”
(ROUND 2) Who influenced you as a young boxer?
“Well, I’d have to say my dad, mom, and coach were my biggest influences. They encouraged me and ensured I did the right things.”
(ROUND 3) What amateur titles did you win?
“I was four-time National Silver Glove Champion, Junior Olympic Champion, two-time PAL Champion, US Championship Winner, Junior Golden Glove Champion, and Olympic Trial Finalist, amongst others.”
(ROUND 4) You have beaten some great fighters on your superb unbeaten run, but who was the most formidable opponent?
“I’d say British fighter Junior Witter because his style is so awkward, and the way he moves makes him hard to hit.”
(ROUND 5) How do you rate upcoming opponent Andriy Kotelnik?
“Kotelnik is a good, solid fighter, and he is gonna come and fight; on a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate him an 8.”
(ROUND 6) Who are you looking to fight in the future?
“In the future, I am willing to fight all the guys who say they are the best…because, at the end of the day, the best will prevail.”
(ROUND 7) What is your motivation?
“My family is my motivation because I want them to want for nothing.”
(ROUND 8) What is your favorite boxing venue?
My favorite boxing venue is Las Vegas. I dream of my face being on a jumbo big screen on the Vegas Strip.
(ROUND 9) What would you change about boxing?
“I would change the weigh-in to two days before the fight.”
(ROUND 10) Who would you have loved to fight?
“For me, I don’t really have a “dream fight” because each fight I fight is just one step closer to achieving greatness.”
(ROUND 11) The big debate still surrounds a possible super-fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. Who do you think will come out on top, Devon, if the fight goes ahead?
“I’d have to lean towards Floyd because of his size and speed, and I also think he has the better defense of the two, but I think Manny would make it a great fight.”
(ROUND 12) And Finally…. Devon Alexander, Tell us something about you that we don’t yet know?
“I love my junk food and sweets!”
“Thanks for the opportunity, Phil.”
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
