| Ulli Wegner is one of Europe’s most successful boxing coaches. A legendary figure in his native Germany, the 73 year-old has guided six fighters to world titles, including the undefeated former IBF and WBA (Super) Super Middleweight Champion Sven Ottke and the current WBO Super Middleweight king Arthur Abraham.
The latest prospect to receive Wegner’s golden touch is former amateur world champion Jack Culcay, who on Saturday night can bring the coach his seventh world title success when he faces Maurice Weber for the Interim WBA Light Middleweight belt.
‘’Jack is a diamond in the rough,’’ said Wegner. ‘’With the skills he has, I have no doubt that he will follow in the footsteps of our other great German champions. But like all diamonds, he just needs a little polishing!’’
The secret of success for Wegner is simple. The master-trainer possesses an unrelenting drive to succeed, which he demands his boxers reciprocate. ‘’I have always had the desire to do special things and to be successful,’’ states Wegner. ‘’The fighters I train must share this desire, if not they are destined to fail.’’
With his many fighters, the coach has always shared a special relationship – a mixture of father, teacher and dictator. ‘’Without authority there is nothing,’’ insists Wegner. ‘’The fighters must respect you and listen to your every word. But confidence is just as important, so you must also be there to advise and support them.’’
Ahead of his world championship challenge, Wegner new protégé Culcay has heaped praise on the experienced coach. ‘’As a professional I have trained with many coaches, all of whom have helped with my development from the amateur ranks.’’ said the 29 year-old. ‘’But since I’ve been working with Mr Wegner everything has started to fall into place. Mr Wegner and his team have rekindled my passion for the sport, and I now know I have the right man in my corner to take me to the top.’’
On Saturday night, the master and pupil will face their toughest test when ‘Golden Jack’ (19-1, 10 KOs) meets Maurice Weber (21-1-1, 8 KOs) for the Interim WBA World Light Middleweight title at the Festhalle in Frankfurt, Germany. |
