Ghana based Nigerian slugger, Isaac Ekpo is expressing delight at landing a shot at the WBO Super Middleweight title but has quickly got down to fervent training ahead of his big night against incumbent champion, Russian born German, Robert Stieglitz on October 19 at the Messehalle, Leipzig, Sachsen, Germany.
Ekpo, 22-1, 16 KOs, managed by the Ghana based syndicate, Landmarks Promotions and Management is excited at chance to realize the childhood dream of following in the footsteps of Nigeria’s greatest boxers by becoming a world champion. He has vowed to put up his best in the bid to successfully wrestle away the world title when he steps into the ring in Germany.
But 30 year old Ekpo, nicknamed Grenade is not getting ahead of himself, acknowledging the huge task facing him against the experienced Stieglitz (45-3, 26 KOs) in what will also be the first fight outside Africa for the Nigerian who has fought all over West Africa.
“My country has produced great boxers like Dick Tiger, Hogan Kid Bassey and Simon Peters (all former world champions) and it has always been my dream to emulate them so I’m definitely happy to get this chance,” Ekpo said when East Side Boxing caught up with him in Accra.
He continued: “I know the assignment is a very tough one against a world champion and an experienced veteran but I’m confident I can put up with whatever he throws at me. I promise to do my best no matter how difficult. I just have to stay focused for 12 rounds.”
Ekpo, also the WBO Africa Super Middleweight champion is equally grateful to his management team headed by Anthony Kermah, CEO of Landmark Promotions and has vowed to win the WBO Super Middleweight title for them and his fans come fight night October 19.
“I’m most grateful to my manager for working hard to get me the chance for this world title, it came early than I expected. Now everything is left to me to do the job in the ring, it’s all in my hands. I’m also grateful to the world champion (Stieglitz) for giving me the voluntary defence.”