Hackney fighter keen to train with the triple world champion

CLAPTON heavyweight Larry Olubamiwo has said he will be honoured and privileged if he was given the opportunity to spar with triple World champion Wladimir Klitschko.

The IBO, IBF and WBO title holder hinted on SkySports’ Ringside programme that he would like to spar with some British talent and claimed that Olubamiwo is one he would consider.

“I was certainly surprised that is for sure,” said the east Londoner.

“To spar with a World champion like him would be an honour and a privilege and something.

“It is something I would definitely jump at the opportunity to take part in.

“I don’t know how long they both will be going for, but if I keep progressing who knows? One day a fight against a Klitschko could happen.

“I’m up for the challenge. I know with the right training and the right tactics I can beat anyone.”

In the short term Olubamiwo is matched up against 32–fight veteran John McDermott, with the fight likely to take place on Frank Warren’s 30th anniversary boxing show at the Liverpool Echo Arena on December 11 after the promoter won the purse bids.

Both fighters are managed by Frank Maloney, but with Warren apparently a fan of ‘The War Machine’, he was keen to host the contest.

“I was a bit surprised that he made a bid to be honest,” Olubamiwo said.

I’ve heard that he is a bit of a fan of mine, which if true is great to hear. He Britain’s biggest promoter so it would be a massive compliment.”

McDermott seems a good fight for Olubamwio to take on. Durable and hard-hitting the Essex man may have lost his last four fights, but pushed Danny Williams and Tyson Fury in each of the outings.

“I have a lot of respect for him, but I would not be surprised if it was an early night for me,” Olubamiwo said.

“It’s an interesting fight because you can look at it two ways.

“In terms of him being a decent name, yes it is a good fight for me, but in terms of me moving up the rankings it isn’t.

“I’m defending my title and I’m number two in the English rankings, so this fight won’t improve that.

“He is durable and it would not hurt me to go for a few rounds, but that was supposed to happen against Dave Ferguson who had never been stopped before and I did it in one round.

“I know if I land a clean punch, with my power, the likely scenario is that my opponent will go over.”