Tyron Zeuge (16-0, 10 KOs) has it all to prove on April 25 when the hotly tipped German super middleweight prospect defends his IBF International strap against former world title challenger Nikola Sjekloca (28-3, 8 KOs) in front of his home fans at the Columbia Halle in Berlin.
The seasoned Sjekloca represents Zeuge’s toughest test to date and has secured the young champion his first main event billing. Despite the pressure of headlining at home, the 22 year-old Berliner’s focus remains clear. ‘’For me this is a fight like any other,’’ said Zeuge. ‘’Whether I’m fighting on the undercard or topping the bill, my objective is the same – I must win!’’
This winning mentality has been drilled into Zeuge since joining the paid ranks in 2012 and teaming up with renowned German coach Karsten Roewer. Ahead of Zeuge’s second IBF International title defence, the experience coach has offered his protégé some words of warning. ’’Tyron is a natural when it comes to boxing,’’ said Roewer. ‘’But regardless of talent, he will need to bring his A-game to beat Sjekloca and continue his journey to the top.’’
While Zeuge’s star is rising, Sjekloca is tried and tested at the highest level. The 36 year-old has lost only three of his thirty-one professional contests and has never been stopped or dropped. In May 2014, the tough Montenegrin proved his resolve by pushing WBO World Champion Arthur Abraham to a twelve-round decision. ’’At this stage of my career my fights are only going to get tougher,’’ said Zeuge. ‘’My job is to keep improving and keep winning. If I continue to do that, my shot at the world title will come sooner rather than later.’’
On April 25, Zeuge will prove whether he is ready to take the next step on his quest to become world champion when he defends his IBF International Championship against Sjekloca. Joining him in action at the Columbia Halle in Berlin are German stars Enrico Koelling (16-1, 6 KOs), Karo Murat (26-2-1, 16 KOs), Noel Gevor (16-0, 9 KOs) and Burak Sahin (6-0, 6 KOs), plus Polish cruiserweight Mateusz Masternak (34-2, 24 KOs). Tickets are available via tickethall.de.
