Legendary Cuban coach Pedro Diaz says fast rising heavyweight star Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) is focused on the World Title as he prepares to defend his WBC International strap against Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) on December 7th at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia.

The Croatian boxing sensation has been in Miami preparing under the tutelage of Diaz for the fifth time in his professional career, and is looking to make a statement on the biggest stage as he fights on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s hotly anticipated rematch against Andy Ruiz Jr for the status of Unified Heavyweight World Champion.

Ahead of his tenth professional fight, Diaz says Hrgovi? has had the perfect training camp and is promising fans a glimpse of the future success they will share together.

“Filip is one of the most serious and focused champions I have ever worked with. He enjoys training and is totally focused,” said Diaz.

“Training camp is going fantastic! Spirits are high and everyone’s goals are perfectly aligned, we are definitely on the hunt.

“Filip has developed into a greater technical, physical and mental fighter and with this being our fifth fight together I believe our chemistry has really grown into something that everyone will see on December 7th in the ‘Clash on the Dunes’.

“Everything happens when the time is right, for Filip and our team our focus is the World Title. Training is based on that goal.”

Hrgovic-Molina features on the undercard of the unified World Heavyweight Championship fight between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua which tops a stacked event at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia.

Also on the card are heavyweight clashes between Alexander Povetkin and Michael Hunter, Dillian Whyte against Mariusz Wach, Mahammadrasul Majidov vs Tom Little and more. All the action will be available to watch on DAZN in the US and other territories, RTL in Croatia and Sky Sports in the UK. 

Former WBC World Heavyweight Title Challenger and WBA International Heavyweight Champion Johann Duhaupas has compared Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) to legendary three-time World Heavyweight Champion Vitali Klitschko.

The experienced Frenchman has been in Miami sparring Hrgovi?, alongside undefeated British heavyweight prospect Fabio Wardley and top Belgian cruiserweight Joel Tambwe Djeko, ahead of his WBC International Title clash with Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) on December 7th at the purpose built Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia.

Duhaupas, who first encountered Hrgovi? at a Wladimir Klitschko training camp in Austria, says he has been impressed with the fast rising Croatian star, and states his ‘style and ability’ are similar to the elder Klitschko brother Vitali.

“I first met Filip at the Klitschko camp in Austria and he impressed me,” said Duhaupas. “He has a good right hand, fast and strong, and you can see he aims to become a World Champion. I smell it in him. His style and ability are similar to Vitali Klitschko.

Duhaupas is renowned for fighting some of the heavyweight division’s elite talent having faced the likes of Deontay Wilder, Alexander Povetkin and Jarrell Miller, and believes Hrgovi? is now ready to face similar big names.

“Deontay is a killer, but Filip already has a good right hand and maybe in one year with more muscle and power he could punch as hard as Wilder,” says Duhaupas. “With good mental and physical preparation, I believe Filip could win by KO against Miller or Povetkin.”

Hrgovi? must first overcome two-time World Title Challenger Molina from Texas, USA. A challenge Duhaupas believes the Olympic Bronze Medalist is ready for.

“It’s a really big opportunity for him,” he says. “When you are a good boxer with a good team you don’t care about travel, you only care about winning your fight. Filip wants to fight and he knows what he wants to achieve, I am very happy to train with him because his mentality is similar to mine.”

Hrgovic-Molina features on the undercard of the unified World Heavyweight Championship fight between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua which tops a stacked event at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia.

Also on the card are heavyweight clashes between Alexander Povetkin and Michael Hunter, Dillian Whyte against Mariusz Wach, Mahammadrasul Majidov vs Tom Little and more. All the action will be available to watch on DAZN in the US and other territories, RTL in Croatia and Sky Sports in the UK.

Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) steps up to face former World Title challenger Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) as part of a colossal night of boxing at the Diriyah Arena in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Saturday December 7 featuring the Unified Heavyweight World Title rematch between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

The Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medallist, who will be defending his WBC International Title, has made a blistering start to his professional career, racing to nine wins from nine fights – with seven of those wins coming by knockout – since making his pro debut at the Arena Riga in September 2017.

Ranked in the top ten in the world with the WBC, WBA and IBF, the 27-year-old already finds himself being propositioned for a World Title shot having been matched aggressively from the very start of this career, landing the WBC ranking title with a sensational knockout win over Amir Mansour.

Molina, a two-time World Title challenger from Texas USA, has mixed it at the top of the Heavyweight division throughout his twelve-year career as a pro. His first World Title attempt came against WBC king Deontay Wilder in 2015 when he took ‘The Bronze Bomber’ nine rounds before succumbing to a stoppage loss.

A year later he travelled to the UK to face IBF ruler Joshua at Manchester Arena and was stopped in three rounds in what was ‘AJ’s’ maiden World Title defence. Fights against Terrell Jamal Woods and Dominic Breazeale followed in 2017 before Molina made his return in February earlier this year, outpointing Nick Guivas in Brownsville.

“I’m very honoured to be a part of this great event,” said Hrgovi?. “It is a big step up for me in terms of the level of opponent and also the size of the event. 

“The whole world will be watching and this is a big opportunity for me to showcase my skills. I would like to thank my team Team Sauerland, Zeljko Karajica and Eddie Hearn for making this possible.

“I’m expecting a hard fight. Eric Molina has fought two times for the World title. He rocked Deontay Wilder in their fight and almost knocked him down. He is a very dangerous fighter with a lot of experience. This will be a big step up in competition and I am expecting the hardest fight of my career.

“From the beginning, we have started with very strong competition. I have told my promoter Team Sauerland that I am ready for anyone in the world and I have always wanted to fight the best so I’m excited for the challenge.

“Everything is perfect in training. I am getting stronger and better with every camp. Pedro Diaz is a great coach and I think we are a very good team. With every camp I see more and more of his knowledge and experience. I am very happy to be here training with him and I think he is bringing out the best in me.”

“I am beyond excited to be a part of this amazing boxing event in Saudi Arabia,” said Molina. “I am grateful to finally be back in the ring and I know exactly what this fight means. Eddie Hearn has given me more than enough time to be physically, mentally and spiritually ready for Hrgovi?.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland said: “Filip is the fastest rising star of the heavyweight division so it is fitting that he play a part in this massive night for heavyweight boxing. This is a huge opportunity with the whole world watching and a chance for him to further his World title claim with a win over Molina.”

Russian powerhouse Alexander Povetkin (35-2, 24 KOs) is also confirmed for the undercard as he returns from his August triumph over Hughie Fury to take on USA’s Heavyweight talent Michael Hunter (18-1, 12 KOs) in an Eliminator for the WBA World Title.

“The world will stop on December 7 to watch Ruiz vs. Joshua 2 and now they have more mouth-watering action to whet the appetite,” said Eddie Hearn. “Povetkin vs. Hunter is a brilliant match up with both men looking for a crack at the World Heavyweight Title in 2020 and unbeaten Hrgovi? makes his first step up against World Title challenger Eric Molina.” 

‘El Animal’ Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) brutally dismantled Mario Heredia (16-7-1, 13 KOs) earning a third round TKO victory at the Cum Hermosillo in Mexico, to defend his WBC International heavyweight title.

Twelve thousand Mexican fight fans got to witness ‘El Animal’ in action as the highly ranked Croatian sensation took just three rounds to dismantle the experienced Heredia, with a thudding right hand knocking Heredia onto the canvas before the referee waved off proceedings. 

“The crowd was absolutely fantastic, it was an honour to fight for the Mexican fans tonight,” said the undefeated Hrgovi?. “Step by step I’m climbing to the top. I was asked what I think about fighting on the Anthony Joshua card in Saudi Arabia. I’m grateful for the opportunities and I’ll fight anyone. I’m expecting a big name so I can show the world who I am.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland was delighted with his fighter’s performance and echoed Hrgovi?’s big fight aspirations. 

“Filip Hrgovi? is the most exciting heavyweight of the new-era,” said Sauerland. “It won’t be long before he gets his opportunity to put his name in the history books.”

“Filip has taken another stop on his road to success and people are now sitting up and taking notice,” said Sauerland. “Filip is the future of the heavyweight division, and it’s just a matter of time until he gets his shot.” 

Hundreds of fight fans were in attendance at the Galerias Mall in Hermosillo as Filip Hrgovi? (8-0, 6 KOs) and his opponent Mario Heredia (16-6-1, 13 KOs) weighed in, ahead of their showdown tonight at the Cum Hermosillo, Mexico.

Hrgovi? defended his WBC International Heavyweight title against America’s Gregory Corbin (15-2, 9 KOs) in May 2019 in Maryland, USA and now defends his title once more against Mario Heredia, from Chihuahua, Mexico. 

The undefeated 27-year-old Croatian has highlighted his respect for the Mexican legends and intends to honour his heroes with a knockout, while Heredia is determined to take advantage of the opportunity of a lifetime. 

WBC International Heavyweight Title – 10 Rounds

Filip Hrgovic – 110,5 kg
Mario Heredia – 127,5 kg

Filip Hrgovi? against Mario Heredia will be broadcasted live around the world including on RTL in Croatia, DAZN in America and Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. 

‘El Animal’ Filip Hrgovi? (8-0, 6 KOs) is excited to put on a show for the Mexican fans as he takes on the in-form Mario Heredia (16-6-1, 13 KOs) in Hermosillo tomorrow night, live on RTL in Croatia, DAZN in America and Sky Sports in the UK.

Having made his US debut at the MGM National Harbour in Washington on May 25, the man known as ‘El Animal’ is looking forward to fighting in front of Mexican fans for the first time as he takes another step towards a World title.

Hrgovi?, a 2016 Olympic bronze medalist, has beaten three Americans in his last three outings and is hoping to channel the notorious Mexican fighting spirit and give the fans a night to remember.

“I respect the Mexican people, I like this country for all the warriors that they have given the sport of boxing,” said Hrgovi?. “People like Morales, Barrera, Cháves, Canelo and a lot more. I’m excited to fight on this event and on DAZN.”

Hrgovi?’s Mexican opponent Mario Heredia, is coming off a victory against former WBC World Champion Samuel Peter and is hoping to impress in front of his home crowd.

“Finally I have got the opportunity that I was looking for, for years,” said Heredia. “This is the fight of my life and I will not waste it. I have never lost here in Hermosillo and I will continue with that mark.”

The Croatian heavyweight sensation endeared himself to the Mexican public whilst wearing a sombrero at Thursday’s press conference, and promoter Nisse Sauerland feels it won’t be long before Hrgovi? is a global household name.

“Filip is already a superstar in Croatia,” said Sauerland. “Fighting in different territories helps to showcase Filip’s abilities and personality to as many fans as possible. It won’t be long before he is fighting for a World title, maybe against Mexico’s own, Andy Ruiz”

Filip Hrgovi? against Mario Heredia will be broadcasted live around the world including living on RTL in Croatia, DAZN in America and Germany and Sky Sports in the UK.

Filip Hrgovi? (8-0, 6 KOs) is promising excitement as he travels to Hermosillo, Mexico for a defence of his WBC International Heavyweight title against Mario Heredia (16-6-1, 13 KOs) on Saturday, August 24, live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK. 

The Croatian boxing sensation returns to action following a first-round knockout win over Gregory Corbin in Maryland, and will be aiming for knockout number seven against the in-form Mexican at the Centro de Usos Múltiples.

“This is what I live for, every day of my life,” says Hrgovi?. “Boxing makes me feel alive. My preparations have gone perfect and I can’t wait to step in the ring again.

“I had four weeks in Zagreb with my coaches Yousef Hassan and Igor Cordas before going to Miami for a six week training camp with Pedro Diaz. We have done some things differently this time, which you will see on August 24.

“I’m feeling great and ready for my next victory. I hope it is going to finish like my last fight, but we will see. Knockouts are always more attractive for fans but if the fight continues round by round, I’m more than ready for that option as well.

“Either way, the fans can expect good boxing show, for sure. They are all familiar with my boxing style, and no doubt, I will give them an exciting fight!”

On a night headlined by pound-for-pound star Juan Francisco Estrada (39-3, 6 KOs) defending his WBC and Ring Magazine Super-Flyweight titles against Dewayne Beamon (16-1-1, 11 KOs), Liam Smith (27-2-1, 15 KOs) and Jono Carroll (16-1-1, 3 KOs) will aim to move into position to get World title shots in the winter.

Former Uzbek amateur star Shakhram Giyasov (8-0, 6 KOs) faces a step-up in his ninth fight over ten rounds against former World champion Darleys Perez (34-4-2, 22 KOs), and young Mexican talents Alexis Espino (3-0, 2 KOs) and Diego Pacheco (4-0, 3 KOs) continue their pro journeys on home turf.

Croatian Heavyweight star Filip Hrgovi? (7-0, 5 KOs) will make his American debut against Greg Corbin on Saturday May 25 at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

**TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW – CLICK HERE**

The Rio 2016 Olympic Bronze medalist joins a blockbuster bill in Maryland headlined by former undisputed Cruiserweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk, the winner of the inaugural World Boxing Super Series tournament, who makes his Heavyweight bow against Carlos Takam.

Hrgovi? returns following a one-sided points victory over Kevin Johnson in his hometown of Zagreb and is eager to showcase his skills in front of an American audience as he continues his quest for World glory.

The Croatian boxing sensation will take on Dallas-born Heavyweight Greg ‘Bad News’ Corbin (15-1, 9 KOs), whose only previous defeat has come at the hands of former IBF World Champion Charles Martin.

“I am pleased that my promoter Team Sauerland has made an agreement with Matchroom and DAZN that will enable me to fight in America,” said Hrgovi?. “I believe DAZN is the future of boxing and I’m sure they will give their viewers the best match ups in the history of the Heavyweight division.”

“I look forward to making my American debut on May 25 I’m very excited because the entire Heavyweight division is moving to the US and the US is the best place for big fights at the moment.”

“I think American fans will love my style because I’m not a classic distance fighter. I’m constantly trying to fight and throwing many punches. The fans can expect some excellent fights from me.”

“My opponent Greg Corbin is very good, and I think he is an excellent choice for this stage of my career. I will prepare for this fight as if it were for a World title so I’m sure it will be a great match up.”

“It will be a good test for me because he is more experienced than me, we can see that from his record, and I believe he will come in his best possible shape so it will be an exciting match for viewers around world watching on DAZN.”

“I’m currently in training camp in Miami. We always train like it’s a fight for the world title. Pedro Diaz insists on discipline and hard training. He refuses to work with fighters who are not 100% focused. We share the same opinion about that. That is why we are a good team, and I think we can achieve big things together.”

“I am looking forward to getting straight back in there on May 25,” said Corbin. “This is a chance for me to redeem myself after the Martin fight. There were a lot of distractions for me in the build-up to that one, but this time I’m fully focused on Hrgovic.

“There’s a lot of hype around this guy with his amateur background and his start in the pros – let’s see if he can back it up.”

“American fight fans are in for a treat. On May 25 they will witness a future star of the Heavyweight division,” said Hrgovi?’s promoter Nisse Sauerland. “Filip Hrgovi? is on a fast track for Heavyweight gold.”

“Filip Hrgovi? is an incredibly talented fighter and this could be a breakthrough year for the young Croatian,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “His amateur pedigree is outstanding and I share Team Sauerland’s excitement about his future – he’s going to be a real player in the division.”

Tickets are priced at $40, $80, $150 and $250 (plus fees) and are on sale now at this link: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/15005688E0B851B0

Filip Hrgovi? has signed a co-promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing and Team Sauerland, with his future fights to be screened exclusively live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK.

The Rio 2016 Olympic Bronze Medallist has made a blistering start to his professional career, racing to seven wins from seven fights – with five of those wins coming by knockout – since making his pro debut in September 2017.

Ranked in the top ten in the World with the WBA, the 26-year-old Croatian star already finds himself being positioned for a World title fight, having been matched aggressively from the very start of his career.

He sent shockwaves through the Heavyweight division with a sensational third-round knockout win over Amir Mansour to claim the WBC International belt in his hometown Zagreb, and also has notable wins against former World title challenger Kevin Johnson and Brit Tom Little.

As Hrgovi? continues to climb the World rankings and move closer to an inevitable World title shot, the highly-touted prospect says he is delighted to be teaming up with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing alongside his current promoter Team Sauerland.

“I am very happy and honoured that my promoter Team Sauerland will be working with Matchroom Boxing, DAZN and Sky Sports to deliver me big fights as I continue my World title quest,” said Hrgovi?. “This will be great for my career and proves I am one of the best prospects in the business. My goal is to become World Champion and to hold all the belts in the Heavyweight division. I know to be the best, I will have to beat the best, and as I proven so far in my professional career, I am willing to fight any heavyweight out there.

“I look forward to being involved in huge fights all around the World and showing boxing fans what Filip Hrgovi? can do!”

“Heavyweight boxing is currently enjoying a huge resurgence and we believe Filip Hrgovi? is the most exciting up and coming fighter in the division,” said Nisse Sauerland. “We’re delighted to be working with Eddie Hearn and Sky Sports, with whom we have always enjoyed an excellent relationship, and DAZN, who are doing great things for boxing in the US, and plotting a route forward that will take Filip to the top of the Heavyweight pile.”

“I’m excited to team up with Team Sauerland to work on an exceptional young Heavyweight in Filip Hrgovi?,” said Eddie Hearn. “Everyone in the sport knows what a threat this man is and he is already willing to jump in big fights at such an early stage in his career. Fans will get to watch Filip all over in the World competing in all major fight cities – don’t blink!”

Filip Hrgovi? attracted a 43% television market share in Croatia for his heavyweight showdown with former World title challenger Kevin Johnson on Saturday at the KC Dražen Petrovi? in Zagreb, broadcast live on RTL.

This huge percentage of the Croatian television watching public tuned in to see the Rio 2016 Olympic Bronze Medallist dominate Johnson, claiming his seventh professional win and continuing his World title charge.

Hrgovi? is now ranked top ten with the WBA and also holds World rankings with the WBC and WBO. Having been matched aggressively from the start of his career, the 26 year-old is already being positioned for a World title fight, which could come as early as next year.

“These sensational viewing figures are further proof of Filip’s massive star appeal,” said Zeljko Karajica, CEO of 7Sports, the sports unit of the ProSiebenSat.1 Group and Managing Director of the operating event agency MMP Event GmbH. “He is already a huge draw in his native Croatia, and as his career progresses, these numbers are only going to improve.”

“We have a plan in place that will take Filip to the top of the heavyweight division, which is the pinnacle of the sport of boxing,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland, of Team Sauerland. “Not only can he become one of the biggest names in Croatian sporting history, but also a global superstar.”

Croatian heavyweight star Filip Hrgovic (7-0, 5 KOs) continues his World title hunt with a unanimous points win over former World title challenger Kevin Johnson (33-12-1, 17 KOs) last night at the KC Drazen Petrovic in Zagreb.

The WBC International Champion dominated Johnson over the eight round distance and came close to stopping the durable American in the second round with an overhand right landing flush and buckling the Kingpin’s legs.

Johnson beat the count but offered little resistance as Hrgovi? continued to control the fight in the later rounds, and the decision was in no doubt when the scorecards were read out with all three judges favouring the Croatian, 80-71.

Hrgovi?, the 2015 European Amateur Championship Gold Medallist and 2016 Rio Olympic Bronze Medallist, ends 2018 on a high, having previously recorded victories over Sean Turner, Filberto Tovar and Amir Mansour.

“I would like to thank everybody who has supported me,” said Hrgovi?. “I would also like to thank Kevin Johnson. He is a good fighter and he has my respect. I hit him with some big shots and he did not go down.

“I now plan to have a short break and enjoy Christmas with my family, and in the New Year I look forward to getting back in the gym and continuing my World title quest. In 2019, I am coming for all the belts!”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland was ringside watching on as Hrgovi? recorded his seventh career win, and says he was impressed with his fighter’s display.

“That was a good performance from Filip,” said Sauerland. “He will have learnt a lot from those eight rounds. He has already shown great development as a professional, and he can now enjoy a well deserved rest before a big 2019.”

On the undercard, two-weight female World Champion Ivana Habazin outpointed Eva Bajic, avenging her 2013 defeat, while rising German star Leon Bauer climbed off the canvas to claim a unanimous points win over Jorge Silva.

Filip Hrgovi? and Kevin Johnson both weighed in today ahead of their heavyweight showdown tomorrow night at the KC Drazen Petrovic in Zagreb.

Hrgovi?, the Rio 2016 Olympic Bronze Medallist and current WBC International Champion, will be boxing in his hometown for a second time following his knockout win over Amir Mansour in September at the Arena Zagreb.

Hrgovi? will look to continue his World title charge but can expect tough competition from Johnson, a former World title challenger, who has previously shared the ring with Vitali Klitschko, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

Heavyweight – 8 Rounds:
Filip Hrgovi?: 105.5 kg
Kevin Johnson: 117.8 kg

The undercard features Croatian female star Ivana Habazin in a rematch with Eva Bajic plus rising German star Leon Bauer against Portugal’s Jorge Silva.

Super Welterweight – 10 Rounds:
Ivana Habazin: 69.9 kg
Eva Bajic: 68.1 kg

Super Middleweight – 8 Rounds:
Leon Bauer: 76 kg
Jorge Silva: 76.3 kg

Super Welterweight – 8 Rounds:
Sladan Janjanin: 69.6 kg
Jorge Silva: 71 kg

Heavyweight – 8 Rounds:
Ivica Perkovic: 119 kg
Zoltan Csala: 115.7 kg

Filip Hrgovi? vs. Kevin Johnson tops an action-packed fight card at the KC Drazen Petrovic. Tickets start from 150 KN and are available via online www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live on RTL in Croatia.

Filip Hrgovi? (6-0, 5 KOs) has a new opponent set for his heavyweight showdown on Saturday at the KC Drazen Petrovic with former World title challenger Kevin ‘Kingpin’ Johnson (32-11-1, 16 KOs) replacing Ytalo Perea.

Perea was due to arrive in Zagreb on Tuesday, but did not make his scheduled connection from Bogota. Later, it became apparent, despite previous assurances, that he did not possess the necessary documents to travel.

With no time to spare, the call went out for a suitable replacement, and Johnson, currently based in Germany, where he recorded a knockout win last Saturday, was placed on standby earlier this week and arrived in Zagreb today.

Johnson, from New Jersey, USA, challenged Vitali Klitschko for the WBC World title, and has since gone on to share the ring with a number of modern heavyweight greats including Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

“I’m feeling good,” said Johnson. “I’m coming off a knockout win last weekend and I’m still in that fighting mood. I’m in great shape and I’m ready to go.

“I didn’t have to think twice when I was offered the fight. Hrgovi? doesn’t worry me. I’ve been in there with the best, and he’s not the best, so why should I worry about him?

“He’s been training for something completely different so who knows what’s going to happen when we meet in the middle of the ring. It’s hard to predict, but if the opportunity for a knockout comes, I’m going to take it.

“He’s going to need all the support he can get come Saturday because if he doesn’t, there’s going to be a big upset, and whatever the outcome, one thing’s for sure, the fans are going to get their money’s worth, I can guarantee that!”

“Obviously, it’s not ideal for Filip to have such a late change of opponent, but due to the circumstances, we were left with no other option,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland.

“We are, however, delighted to have secured such a high profile replacement. Kevin Johnson has fought the best out there. He always puts on a great show, and I’m sure the fans at the KC Drazen Petrivic will not be disappointed.”

Filip Hrgovi? vs. Kevin Johnson tops an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrovi? in Zagreb on Saturday, which also features Croatian female star Ivana Habazin in a rematch with Eva Bajic and a full supporting undercard.

Tickets start from 150 KN and are available online via http://www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live and exclusive on RTL in Croatia.

Filip Hrgovi? has offered his prediction for the WBC World Heavyweight title fight between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury on Saturday night.

The Croatian boxing sensation will be watching with interest as fellow Olympic Bronze Medallist Deontay Wilder puts his title on the line against the lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

Hrgovi? is the current WBC International Champion, having claimed the title with a spectacular knockout win over Amir Mansour, and is set to make his first defence against Ytalo Perea on December 8 at the KC Drazen Petrovic in Zagreb.

“I believe Wilder will get the better of Fury in the end, even if it’s a close fight,” says Hrgovi?. “Wilder is strong and his right hand could destabilise Fury as soon as he’s able to reach the target. However, it’s not an easy fight to predict.”

Since joining the professional ranks, Hrgovi? has made no secret of his desire to win World titles, and after only six fights, he is already ranked with the WBC, WBA and WBO. The 26 year-old wagers he will only need five more fights before he is ready to challenge the likes of Wilder, Fury and Anthony Joshua.

“As people are aware, I haven’t hidden from anyone since starting my professional career,” said Hrgovi?. “And I believe I will be ready to challenge for the World title in five fights. Obviously, it is not just my call, I must speak with my promoter, manager and coach, but soon, I will be coming for all the belts!”

The WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Ytalo Perea will top an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrovi? on December 8.

Tickets start from 150 KN and are available online via www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live and exclusive on RTL in Croatia.

Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury will be broadcast live by RTL Croatia on December 2 at 3:30 with a recorded version shown later at 14:30.

Pedro Diaz has warned Filip Hrgovi? (6-0, 5 KOs) not to underestimate his opponent Ytalo Perea (11-3-2, 7 KOs) ahead of their WBC International Heavyweight title clash on December 8 at the KC Dražen Petrovi? in Zagreb.

Hrgovi? has set up camp in Miami for a second time following his impressive knockout win over Amir Mansour in September, and will once again be counting on Diaz’s skills and experience to deliver him a winning performance.

Diaz, who has enjoyed significant success as a coach in both the amateur and professional ranks, says he is pleased with their preparations and how their relationship is developing, but admits: “it takes time to shape a diamond.”

“Filip is a pure athlete. He is always in shape and will be well prepared for December 8,” said Diaz. “I will not go into specifics about our preparations, but what I can say is he will be ready to deliver another great performance.

“It is our second training camp together. We’re working on building and improving the coach-athlete relationship. He is a very talented fighter, and we are progressing every day, but it takes time to shape a diamond.

“Perea is a good opponent for Filip. He has the power, the amateur background and a good boxing knowledge. It is important that Filip does not underestimate him. I believe he is yet to show his true potential as a professional, and I know he will be keen to showcase his capabilities in Zagreb.”

When asked what Hrgovi?’s key to victory will be, the renowned Cuban coach refuses to give too much away, simply starting: “Patience, intelligence and following our game plan, but that’s all I’m willing to say!”

The WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Ytalo Perea will top an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrovi? in Zagreb on December 8.

Tickets start from 150 KN and are available online via www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live and exclusive on RTL in Croatia.

Ivana Habazin (19-3, 7 KOs) rematches Eva Bajic (14-14, 9 KOs) on the undercard of Filip Hrgovi?’s WBC International Heavyweight title defence against Ytalo Perea on December 8 at the KC Drazen Petrovic in Zagreb.

The 29 year-old from Zagreb is fired up as she gets the opportunity to avenge her first career defeat in a ten-round super welterweight clash with Bajic, who defeated Habazin via unanimous decision for the IBF World title in March 2013.

Since suffering defeat to her Serbian rival, Habazin has gone on to claim both IBF Welterweight and IBO Middleweight World titles, and with an improved approach to her preparations she is confident of reversing the decision.

Habazin is also looking forward to fighting in front of her home fans again having successfully defended her IBO Middleweight World title with a one-sided points win over Gifty Amanua Ankrah on September 8 at the Arena Zagreb.

“I’m excited to be fighting again in Zagreb,” said Habazin. “It was quite overwhelming to box in front of my home fans last time, especially as this was the first boxing event of such significance. I was eager to prove myself and I wanted everyone to see the hard work and dedication I invested in my training.

“I’m even more excited to be boxing Eva again. The first fight I ever lost in my career was against Eva, and that is why my motivation is even greater this time.

“I think Eva is a very formidable and experienced opponent. However, our last fight resulted in defeat because I wasn’t prepared how I should have been. I defeated myself. I expect she considers herself the favorite in this fight because of that win, but I’m ready to show everyone that I will be victorious this time.

“Since our first fight, my approach has changed. I am really putting boxing as my priority. My health is finally good. I have a great team around me, and a great coach in James Ali Bashir. I really believe this fight could result in KO”

Habazin’s revenge mission will provide chief support on Hrgovi?’s WBC title defence, with Petar Milas having been forced to withdraw from a heavyweight showdown with Serhiy Radchenko after suffering a hand injury in training.

The WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Ytalo Perea will top an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrovi? on December 8 with a full undercard set to be announced.

Tickets start from 150 KN and are available online www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live and exclusive on RTL in Croatia.

Undefeated heavyweight Petar Milas (13-0, 10 KOs) joins countryman Filip Hrgovi? in action on December 8 at the KC Dražen Petrovi? in Zagreb as the 23 year-old from Split takes on Ukraine’s Serhiy Radchenko (6-2, 1 KO).

Milas will be looking to cap off an impressive year that has seen him record victories over former World title challengers Francesco Pianeta and Kevin Johnson, and claim the IBO International and WBC Mediterranean titles.

“My opponent is a strong man, but not too strong for me,” says Milas, who is looking forward fighting on a big card in the Croatian capital. “I love the big shows. They inspire me, as my performances in Munich have already shown

“This will be another step up the ladder for me, and the fans should expect an entertaining fight, but one that could come to an end very quickly.”

Milas also has a message for his heavyweight rival Hrgovi?, who tops the bill in Zagreb, defending his WBC International title versus Ecuador’s Ytalo Perea.

“Hrgovi? should study me well,” he says. “I’ve already seen weaknesses in him, and in the future, I see us both standing in the ring, fighting for the World title!”

The WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Ytalo Perea will top an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrovi? on December 8 with a full undercard set to be announced.

Tickets start from 150 KN and are available online via www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live and exclusive on RTL in Croatia.

Filip Hrgovi? (6-0, 5 KOs) continues his World title charge on December 8 as the Croatian boxing sensation defends his WBC International title against Ecuador’s Ytalo Perea (11-3-2, 7 KOs) at the KC Dražen Petrovi? in Zagreb.

Hrgovi? secured the WBC International belt with a spectacular third-round stoppage win over Amir Mansour on September 8 at the Arena Zagreb, and the Rio 2016 Olympic Bronze Medallist has vowed to deliver another impressive performance as he returns to the Croatian capital for his maiden defence.

“I am pleased to have my next opponent confirmed,” said Hrgovic. “Perea is a good boxer with a strong amateur pedigree and I expect him to provide a tough test. He’s shared the ring with some good boxers and he’s never been stopped.

“I look forward to the challenge and I look forward to fighting again in Zagreb. With the support of the Croatian people, I believe I will reach the top of the heavyweight division, and I promise to deliver them another entertaining fight and a great victory on December 8 at the KC Dražen Petrovi?.”

Perea claimed gold at the 2011 Pan American games and defeated Dominic Breazeale and Simon Kean on his way to qualify for the London 2012 Olympics where he lost out to the Beijing 2008 Gold Medallist Roberto Cammarelle.

In the professional ranks, Perea has recorded eleven victories including seven knockouts, and has gone the distance with former World Champion Guillermo Jones and highly-rated Polish heavyweight Adam Kownacki.

“I am excited to come to Croatia to fight Filip Hrgovi?,” said Perea. “I have travelled the world fighting as an amateur so I have no fear facing him in his backyard. I have watched his fights and I know he’s a good boxer, but I’m confident I will win. He has never fought anyone like me before!”

Zeljko Karajica, CEO of 7Sports, the sports unit of the ProSiebenSat.1 Group and Managing Director of the operating event agency MMP Event GmbH, says fans should expect a ‘spectacular’ fight between the warring heavyweights.

“We’re delighted to announce Filip Hrgovi? versus Ytalo Perea for the WBC International title,” said Karajica. “This promises to be a spectacular contest and a great main event for our fight night at the KC Dražen Petrovi?”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland, of Team Sauerland, says he believes Perea can provide a stern test and an important victory for Hrgovi? as he looks to manoeuvre his heavyweight hope into World title contention.

“This will be another good step up for Filip,” said Sauerland. “Perea has an impressive amateur pedigree and has proven he can mix it at a high level as a professional. Filip is currently ranked top twenty with the WBC, WBO and WBA, and a victory on December 8 will further boost his World title credentials.”

The WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest between Filip Hrgovi? and Ytalo Perea will top an action-packed fight card at the KC Dražen Petrovi? on December 8 with a full undercard set to be announced.

Tickets start from 150 KN and are available online via www.eventim.hr. All the action will be broadcast live and exclusive on RTL in Croatia.

Filip Hrgovi? (6-0, 5 KOs) continues his World title hunt on December 8 as he returns to Zagreb to defend his WBC International Heavyweight title at the Arena Drazen Petrovic.

The Croatian star sent shockwaves through the heavyweight division with a sensational third-round knockout win over Amir Mansour to claim the WBC International belt on September 8 at the Arena Zagreb.

As Hrgovi? continues to climb the rankings and move closer to an inevitable World title challenge, the Rio 2016 Olympic Bronze Medallist returns to the Croatian capital to defend his belt against another top heavyweight contender.

“The experience of walking out in front of my home fans in Zagreb last September was so powerful and emotional,” said Hrgovi?. “I have never experienced anything similar and I am so thankful to have the opportunity to compete in front of my home fans again.

“There was a lot of pressure on me before my last fight, with Mansour replacing Cornish late into my preparations, and with Mansour being a better fighter and a southpaw as well. That being said, we had a fight plan, which I stuck to perfectly, and secured a good win and made a statement for everyone in the heavyweight division.

“On December 8, I will take another step forward in my career. I’ve never hid from a challenge and have made tough choices since my professional debut last year. At the Arena Drazen Petrovic, I will continue the same path and face the best possible opponent, as I believe I need to beat the best to be the best.

“I am currently back in Miami, and will be training here with my coach Pedro Diaz until the fight. Pedro has prepared a specific training plan as he did against Mansour, and I am sure that we will be 100% ready for my next opponent.

“I urge everyone to reserve their tickets as soon as possible, as we plan to organise another magical boxing night in Zagreb on December 8. I want to put Zagreb on the boxing map and make Croatia proud of their talented boxers.”

Zeljko Karajica, CEO of 7Sports, the sports unit of the ProSiebenSat.1 Group and Managing Director of the operating event agency MMP Event GmbH, is anticipating another great event on December 8.

“Following a successful event on September 8, we look forward to returning to Zagreb for another spectacular night of boxing,” said Karajica. “Filip is currently the biggest talent in the world of boxing, and we are excited to be bringing his next fight to the Arena Drazen Petrovic on December 8.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland, of Team Sauerland, says he has been impressed with Hrgovi?’s meteoric rise through the professional ranks, but admits tougher tests lie ahead including December’s title defence at the Arena Drazen Petrovic.

“Filip continues to impress,” says Sauerland. “His fight with Mansour attracted a 38% television market share in Croatia, and earned him a top twenty ranking with the WBC and that WBA, which is an impressive achievement after only six professional bouts. Filip must now build on this success. Starting on December 8, the stakes will get higher, the opponents will be get tougher, and he must rise to the occasion.”

Antonio Vuksanovi?, Sports Editor of RTL, who will broadcast the fight live and exclusive in Croatia, adds: “We are extremely happy to get to see Filip in ring one more time before the end of the year. It will be an early Christmas present to our audience.”

Tickets for Filip Hrgovi?: On The Hunt are on sale now and available via www.eventim.hr.