Rudy Markussen (37-2, 24 KOs) will celebrate a special homecoming on February 18. Fighting in Copenhagen for the first time in more than five years, the “Hardhitter” will challenge WBA Interim Super-Middleweight Champion Brian Magee (35-4-1, 24 KOs) at Broendby Hall.
Of course, Andre Ward is the WBA 168 lbs champion. The need for an interim champion is completely bogus, as Ward has been active, and taking on stellar competition in the Super Six. Be that as it may…
“Rudy has knocked out everybody we have put in front of him,” promoter Nisse Sauerland said. “He has earned his world title shot and we are thrilled to bring him back to Broendby where he can count on the boisterous support of his hometown fans. Magee is incredibly tough but I am convinced that Rudy will beat him.”
A 36-year-old veteran from Belfast, Magee has won seven of his last eight fights, losing only to IBF Super-Middleweight Champion Lucian Bute in March 2011. He bounced back in style, clinching the WBA Interim Title with a unanimous decision over Jaime Barboza in Costa Rica four months later. Markussen has stopped all four opponents since his comeback in May 2011. “Magee is a tough champion who has proven his class in a lot of battles,” Markussen said. “But I am the hardest-hitting fighter at super-middleweight and when Magee finds out about my power it will be too late for him.”
Markussen is excited about his return to Copenhagen. “This will be a very special night for me and my fans. I have not been fighting at home for more than five years so I want to make it a special evening for everybody. During my break I never stopped believing in myself. I knew my big day would come and here it is. With the help of my fans I will make it a night to remember.”
Tickets for the show at Broendby Hall will be available at www.billetnet.dk on Friday.
