There are just eight days to go until a new cruiserweight world champion will be crowned. At least, that is what trainer Fritz Sdunek believes.
The 66-year-old has already coached twelve world champions and wants to make cruiserweight Alexander Alekseev (24-2-1, 20 KOs) number thirteen.
“I think that the chances are pretty big. I am very optimistic as Alexander looked great over the whole period of sparring,” said Sdunek ahead of his prodigy’s mandatory title bid against IBF and RING Champion Yoan Pablo Hernandez (27-1, 13 KOs) on November 23 in Bamberg, Germany.
Sdunek knows that both southpaws are on par when it comes down to pure technical skill. But he sees two big advantages that will pave the way to victory for Alekseev.
“Alexander has raw punching power, Hernandez not so much. In addition, Hernandez was injury bidden over the last years and this will be his first fight in over 14 months. He might be a bit rusty, which plays in our hands.”
However, Sdunek also knows that Hernandez is not a defending world champion for nothing. “There are certain things in this fight Alekseev must be wary of, especially Hernandez potent jab. He also throws a good uppercut that could spell danger.”
Hernandez vs. Alekseev will also be another meeting of the most renowned German coaches. However, Sdunek does not seem to care much to go up against his friend Ulli Wegner. “We met so often in the amateurs and also four times in the professional ranks that it is nothing special to me anymore. This is all about the fighters. The trainer who has his prodigy better prepared will win!”
