Photo by Chris Farina/Top Rank
Ruslan Provodnikov makes his much anticipated 2014 ring debut on Saturday, June 14 when he defends his 140-pound title vs. Chris Algieri live on HBO from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.
The relentless Russian was hoping to land a shot at a more high-profile foe, but even though Algeri isn’t a household name, he’s no slouch either.
Provodnikov took a break from training to talk with Round By Round Boxing regarding his upcoming bout and what the future may hold if he is successful against Algieri.
Also, be sure to check out Brendan Montenegro’s video with Provodnikov at the end of this interview.
Round By Round Boxing: Hello, Ruslan, how is training coming along?
Ruslan Provodnikov: Training is going great! Every training camp gets better and better.
RBRBoxing: Who are you sparring with to help you get ready for Chris Algieri’s boxing style?
RP: I will let you know towards the end of camp. I’m sparring with very good guys that are my stablemates and some other good fighters.
RBRBoxing: We all know you are a relentless force in the ring, which is something that can’t be taught. But, what are some of the aspects of your game that you are working on improving under the tutelage of Freddie Roach?
RP: I’m working on movement, durability, agility and speed.
RBRBoxing: You made it known that Algieri was not the marquee name you wanted to be facing in June. Will you be looking to make a statement on June 14 to get the attention of the bigger names of the Jr. Welterweight division?
RP: Definitely, this fight is more important to me than any previous one. I will be ready.
RBRBoxing: In essence, June 14 will be a home fight for Chris Algieri. Do you have a problem with that and do you think you’ll have support at the Barclays Center?
RP: New York will be like a second home to me. With all the Russian speaking people there, I think I will have more support.
RBRBoxing: Artie Pellulo said that the reason the Brandon Rios fight didn’t get made was because Rios cannot make 140 pounds. Are you interested in moving up to 147 pounds to face Rios or anyone else? Or are you content with the fights you can get at 140?
RP: I am ready to fight Brandon Rios at any weight. It will be a great fight!
RBRBoxing: Did you watch Floyd Mayweather vs. Marcos Maidana and if so, who do you think won?
RP: Great fight, I thought it was very close. Mayweather is beatable just like any other fighter.
RBRBoxing: Who do you think will win Miguel Cotto vs. Sergio Martinez?
RP: I will be rooting for Miguel!
RBRBoxing: If all goes well against Algieri, who would you like to face next?
RP: Only the best! [Juan Manuel] Marquez if he is brave enough, Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
RBRBoxing: Sounds good. Thank you for taking the time during training to talk with us. Do you have any words for your fans?
RP: Please watch my fight June 14th and come out and support! We are trying to sell tickets and get more shows with me in that area!
Brendan Montenegro of Round By Round Boxing interviews Ruslan Provodnikov after press conference announcing fight against Chris Algieri.
