By David Math: Lost in the title shuffling, disappointment, and constant uncertainty that continues to raise question marks in the Heavyweight boxing division is a man with a willingness to fight anyone at any time — his name is Samuel Peter. The Nigerian Nightmare rose to the top of the division by dominating lesser opponents with his superior strength and relentless predatory mentality, stalking weaker fighters with an unbreakable chin and shocking power in both hands..
Despite reporting to his recent weigh-in showcasing a muscular and in-shape 250 pound frame, Peter has continued to hear his critics say that he is just another out-of-shape, fat, and lazy heavyweight who relies on one punch to save him after failing to box his opponent. Clearly these critics didn’t watch Samuel Peter dominate James Toney in their rematch by out-boxing him and showing surprising foot speed, dexterity, and patience to stand to conquer a very dangerous puncher with relative ease and tact.
These same critics didn’t watch him stand in the same ring with the best heavyweight in the world – Wladimir Klitschko – and go 12 rounds with Dr. SteelHammer – even giving Vlad enough problems as to put him to the canvas where he tasted the Nigerian’s unequivocal power and go-for-throat offensive prowess. Peter’s only loss has come to the hands of Vlad Klitschko – and there is no shame in that. Since then, Peter has vastly improved his boxing skills and has trained extremely hard only to be toyed with by Oleg Maskaev and company, which has led to Peter being crowned interim champ.
Ladies and Gentlemen – this is the kind of ferocity the Heavyweight division needs. Peter calls out every heavyweight out there with relentless confidence. He has said in nearly every interview that he can’t wait to mash-it-up with Vladimir Klitschko again in what clearly would be the biggest attraction in the Heavyweight division. It’s been too long since we’ve had a legitimate contender in this division not only call out other champions and top fighters, but have the willingness to do battle at any time, with no excuses.
Peter deserves credit for taking this fight with McCline on such short notice when he could have easily rode off into the sunset for a few months and waited for a lesser opponent, given his newfound negotiating power in the form of the WBC title belt. But thankfully, his name is not Oleg Maskaev, whom while being a respectable figure in boxing, has not defended his title with the pride and honor that one would expect from a champion.
“The Nigerian Nightmare” Samuel Peter (28-1, 22 KOs), who now holds the WBC interim championship belt, will defend his title and reputation this Saturday night against Jameel “Big Time” McCline (38-7-3, 23 KOs). Many are predicting McCline to expose Samuel Peter. Others are saying this will be Samuel Peter’s coming-out party and announcement to the world that he is here to stay. One thing is for sure – Samuel Peter will not back down, and I urge those who still continue to doubt his legitimacy to tune in and watch as “The Nigerian Nightmare” looks to re-instill a dash of respect back into the Heavyweight Division.