Matvienko aims to box clever
9:40am Friday 12th March 2010 in Boxing By Liam Chronnell
ALEX Matvienko believes he will have to put on a boxing masterclass against Geraint Harvey.
The Great Lever light-middleweight defends his British Masters title against the hard-hitting Welshman at the Reebok on Sunday.
Harvey boasts a less than impressive record of just seven wins in 51 fights — but two of those have come in his last three bouts against Bolton-based Chris Johnson and previously unbeaten prospect Tony Doherty.
And Matvienko, dubbed the One Man Riot and well known for his tear-ups in the ring, says he will change his style to overcome his man — hopefully!
“He’s an aggressive fighter and has a bit of a bang,” said the 31-year-old. “He’s put down a lot of fighters but he tires after a couple of rounds.
“I’ll take my time, find my distance and then look to pick him off. I’ll look to come on stronger in the later rounds like I did in my last fight.
“But no matter what I say, I know it’s going to be a war. That’s just how I was born and bred and how I’ve always fought. I might go in with a plan but it will probably go out the window and just end up in a battle like I always do.”
Matvienko, who will have former European light-middleweight champion Jamie Moore in his corner in trainer Oliver Harrison’s absence, added: “It’s like a world-title shot for Harvey because he’s had lots of losses.
“But he’s changed his trainer now and had two good wins recently. He’s been in with some really good boxers like Brian Rose and Gary Woolcombe, the former British champion, so he’s no mug.
“It’s going to be a really good fight. I feel brilliant at the moment and really fresh. I can’t wait.”
Chris Johnson and Shane Singleton, who are based at Karl Ince’s Mayor Street gym, will be on the undercard of Matvienko’s fight. Tickets cost £30, call Alex on 07841 115072.
Club-mates Enzo Maccarinelli and Tobias Webb will be in action at Liverpool’s Echo Arena tonight.
click2find
