May 18, 2005 – Harsh words were exchanged at a conference held to discuss the July 2 SHOWTIME-televised 12-round heavyweight battle in Reno, Nevada, between undefeated USBA and NABF Champion Samuel “The Nigerian Nightmare” Peter, 23-0 (20), and NABA Champion Taurus “The Bull” Sykes, 23-1-1 (6)..
Peter and Sykes will be vying to unify all the major regional belts in North America. A victory for Peter would further solidify the power-punching 24-year-old Nigerian as THE new heavyweight on the scene. A victory for New York’s Sykes would catapult him into the picture as a serious force in the division. Both seemed aware of the importance of winning.
“I’m a slick and crafty boxer and a lot stronger than people think,” asserted Sykes. “I have great defense, and my jab is devastating. I’ll control him with my jab. I’m not worried at all. What can he bring that I haven’t already seen? A knife?”
“You don’t have a day job? I suggest you start sending out applications,” quipped hot-blooded manager Ivalyo Gotzev, to which Sykes replied “I suggest you go get another heavyweight.”
The Peter vs. Sykes fight was arranged after a press release issued by Sykes’ camp claimed that Sykes would end up calling Peter “Toby,” (an allusion to the slavery drama, Roots) at the conclusion of their match. Peter’s promoter Dino Duva swiftly responded by publicly challenging Sykes to face his young heavyweight and Sykes promptly accepted.
As is his custom, for much of the conference, Peter seemed content to allow Sykes to make his threatening statements unchallenged. Former opponent Jeremy Williams was also very vocal before being put to sleep by Peter in the second round of a SHOWTIME-televised showcase last December.
“He’s never fought a heavyweight like me. This fight is NOT going the distance” said Sykes.
“The day you signed the contract was the day you started digging your own grave. Right now, you’re a walking corpse,” replied Peter.
Featuring an important clash between promising heavyweight contenders, the Duva Boxing promoted event will be the first ever held at the brand-new 7000-seat Reno Events Center.
The Samuel Peter vs. Taurus Sykes triple title showdown will be the sole fight broadcast July 2 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. Tickets are priced at $200, $100, $75, $55, and $30. The fight is sponsored by “Reno/Tahoe – America’s Adventure Place.” First bout starts at 4:30 p.m.