Juergen Braehmer (47-2, 35 KOs) and Eduard Gutknecht (29-3-1, 12 KOs) came face-to-face at today’s kick-off press conference ahead of their WBA Light Heavyweight title fight on March 12 at the Jahnsportforum in Neubrandenburg, Germany.
They meet for a second time following a memorable European title fight in February 2013, which saw Braehmer take the title from Gutknecht with a closely contested points decision.
With the roles reversed and Gutknecht now challenging for Braehmer’s belt, it will be a case of repeat or revenge for the battling German fighters.
‘’When I returned to boxing at the end of 2012, the plan was to take it slow,’’ recalls Braemher. ‘’We had identified one or two building fights, but then the opportunity came to fight Gutknecht for the European title, and the rest is history!
‘’Now, I’m the Champion, and I’ve gone from the hunter to the hunted. Eddy deserves his shot, but he will not take my title. The fans in Neubrandenburg will see me claim a second victory over him on March 12.’’
Gutknecht believes he has the beating of his old adversary, and is eager to avenge his European title loss. ‘’I know I can hurt Juergen, and on March 12, I will fulfil my dream of becoming World Champion,’’ said the 33 year-old from Gifhorn.
‘‘I still believe I won our first fight, but that’s water under the bridge. It’s about the here and now, and I’m ready for revenge.’’
Promoter Kalle Sauerland expects the rematch to eclipse their first bout, having already captured the imagination of the German press and public.
‘’Their first fight was something special but this promises to be even better,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’It has all the ingredients of a great spectacle. The venue is almost sold out and it is already attracting a lot of media attention. On March 12, fans can look forward to an explosive encounter between two of Germany’s top boxers.’’
