Braehmer and Cleverly come face-to-face at kick-off press conference

(Photo: Public Address)

Juergen Braehmer, Nathan Cleverly

Juergen Braehmer (48-2, 35 KOs) and Nathan Cleverly (29-3, 15 KOs) came face-to-face today at a press conference in Hamburg ahead of their WBA World Light Heavyweight title fight on October 1 at the Jahnsportforum in Neubrandenburg, Germany.

The fighters appeared in a confident mood as they discussed their upcoming World title tussle, and having twice come close to sharing a ring, both Champion and Challenger are eager to prove who is the better man.

‘’I’m very happy this fight is finally happening,’’ said Braehmer. ‘’Nathan Cleverly is a great boxer. He has an offensive style and a high work-rate, which I’m sure will make for an entertaining night for the fans in Neubrandenburg.

‘’Of course, every fight is a challenge, but I believe Nathan will provide me with one of the biggest challenges of my career. However, together with my coach Conny Mittermeier, I will leave no stone unturned, and on October 1, my hand will be raised and the belt will remain around my waist.’’

Cleverly, who is eight-years younger than Braehmer, believes the time has come for the title to change hands, and has vowed to send the German veteran into retirement.

‘’This fight is my destiny,’’ said the 29 year-old. ‘’Juergen has been fantastic for German boxing, but it’s time for a young lion to come and rip that title from him. He’s 37 years old and hopefully this fight will mark the end of his career.’’

Promoters Kalle Sauerland and Eddie Hearn were on hand to offer their opinions, as the men look set to renew their professional rivalry.

‘‘It’s a real pick ‘em fight,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’Juergen has the experience, while Nathan has youth on his side. One is a brilliant counterattack boxer, and the other, a real offensive machine. It’s a fascinating match-up and one that guarantees excitement.’’

‘’The UK is leading the way in World boxing,’’ said Hearn. ‘’We have fourteen World Champions, and on October 1, we will have one more. Nathan has matured, he knows what he wants and that’s to become a two-time World Champion.’’

Tickets for the WBA World Light Heavyweight Championship fight between Juergen Braehmer and Nathan Cleverly are available online via www.eventim.de andwww.tickethall.de or by calling the ticket hotline on +49 (0)1806-570044.