ABASS BARAOU is making himself available as a potential opponent for Vergil Ortiz Jr, should the need arise in the upcoming days.
Both super-welterweights hold top rankings in the WBA, but their chances of a title shot may be postponed until later this year or even 2025. This delay is due to Israil Madrimov, the current belt-holder, defending his recently won championship against boxing superstar Terence Crawford, a former undisputed welterweight champion. The highly anticipated match is scheduled to take place on August 3 in Los Angeles.
Ortiz was initially scheduled to fight former unified champion Tim Tszyu on the highly anticipated undercard. However, Tszyu withdrew due to medical reasons, which opened up an opportunity for Ortiz. Currently, the boxing community is abuzz with rumors of a potential matchup between Ortiz and Ukrainian boxer Serhii Bohachuk, but no official confirmation has been made yet.
Tonight, Baraou, with an impressive record of 15 wins, 1 loss, and 9 knockouts, is making his return to the ring. This highly anticipated event will also mark his comeback to UK television, where he will be defending his European super-welterweight championship against Macaulay McGowan. McGowan, on the other hand, boasts a record of 20 wins, 4 losses, and 2 draws, with 5 knockouts to his name. The thrilling match will take place at the Bolton Whites Hotel in Bolton and will be broadcasted live on Channel 5.
In order to have any chance of swiftly defeating Ortiz or any other top contender, the champion must successfully finish the fight without any injuries or setbacks.
“Absolutely, that’s the strategy. I’m fully prepared for it,” Baraou expressed his readiness for a chance to face Ortiz.
Tim Tszyu is no longer in the picture. I am prepared to step up and take his place. I am determined to emerge victorious in my upcoming fight and secure a strong win, so that I can be fully prepared for the next challenge.
He hasn’t really been in a fight at 154 yet, according to him [Ortiz]. I am prepared to take him into challenging situations. He possesses considerable talent, and I believe it would be an exciting match. I am fully prepared and confident that it could occur, so I have positioned myself and am hopeful for its realization.
Baraou spoke to Boxing News via Zoom with his maiden defence getting nearer and nearer. The German is a red-hot odds-on favourite to beat his Mancunian challenger, who may not have been the first defence many had predicted after Baraou beat Sam Eggington in a fan-friendly encounter on March 1.
Baraou (L) is heavily favored to successfully defend his European title.
He states, “I didn’t have any specific expectations.”
“My sole purpose here is to pursue my next job opportunity, and that is where my focus lies. Having my name associated with this endeavor is highly advantageous, and I anticipate a formidable opponent who will put up a good fight. It’s evident that he’s not merely here to surrender and waste his time, and I am fully prepared to counter any challenges he presents. This upcoming battle represents my next challenge, and I am genuinely thrilled about it.”
The 29-year-old demonstrates proficiency in his preparation and maintains a professional demeanor when responding to BN. He does not allow himself to disregard McGowan, as he understands the significance of his current situation and the efforts he has put in to revitalize his career after prolonged periods of inactivity.
He says, “Every time I step in, I strive to deliver an exceptional performance and I believe the greatest pressure I face is the one I impose on myself.”
“I am fully aware of the task at hand and possess a clear understanding of the approach required to accomplish it. It is imperative for me to deliver an exceptional performance, utilizing all the hard work I have put in during training. The expectations of my coaches, as well as the scrutiny from my loved ones, are significant motivators for me. While public opinion may vary, I do not allow it to consume my thoughts. I remain focused on my goals and remain dedicated to achieving them.”
When Baraou’s friends joined him to rewatch his triumph over Eggington, he relished their company. Although the contest was fiercely fought, Baraou always had an extra reserve of strength. His victory was undeniably earned, and the immense emotions that followed were a result of years spent waiting for a second chance, uncertain if it would ever come. However, Baraou also found himself watching the fight alone on a separate occasion.
He remembers, “While watching it by myself, I analyze it critically, but when I watch it with friends, I embrace my inner fan and savor every second. I distinctly remember feeling quite emotional during the fight.”
I could have approached it more cleverly, but I didn’t feel disappointed. The situation demanded that kind of fight in that moment, making it a truly special night. It was necessary for me to give it my all, and I’m glad I did because it turned out well. I needed that challenge to reaffirm my abilities. Although I acknowledge that there could have been a smarter approach, I genuinely enjoyed the fight. If given the chance, I would choose to tackle it in the exact same way again.
“I am thoroughly relishing every aspect. I am fully committed and have a clear vision of my objectives; all that remains is to embrace the experience. I am deeply concentrated and determined to maintain the prevailing drive, actively engaging and exposing myself to grander opportunities.”
