TO “AV” AND TO “AV” NOT

WBC International super middleweight Silver Champion Avni “Mr Robert” Yidlirim fights experienced Marco Antonio Periban May 13th in Zapopan, Jalisco…for one of them it’ll be a stepping stone towards a milestone, yet for the other,  it might prove a millstone.

Avni is not the least concerned about being programmed to fight, punching his card in a lion’s den atmosphere of Mexico’s tequila territory.

Just as well, because WBC female bantamweight champion Mariana “Barby” Juarez, who’s Marco’s girlfriend, and can be a tigress in her own right, came and sat right beside him and his Promoter Ahmet Öner, at the WBC weekly press conference, in the Rail Union HQ, astone’s throw from  The Monument of the Revolution. Marco, who arrived a tad late, sat down on the other side of the podium.

Looking ripped and ready Avni said: “Of course my opponent is very experienced, but I don’t feel I’m fighting abroad, as the WBC is my home, I feel very comfortable here. So Marco must not feel he’s home alone!

“This is also the time and opportunity to show the WBC and the fans that I am the new challenger for the championship.”

Avni sparred with James Degale , reputedly knocking out a front tooth. In 2014 “Chunky”. TKO’d Marco in three rounds at the Echo Arena, Liverpool, England.
Avni mused: “Sometimes styles are not compatible. But if James Degale, who’s not a hard puncher stops Marco, then he should really worry about me!”

Far from it, as far as an always smiling Marco is concerned. He explains he’ll be employing a “Blood in the sand”  strategy, being the matador, combatting bulldozing Avni.

Marco calmly declared: “Avni looks like a strong fighter. But I have much  more experience and need to execute an intelligent fight. He’s not really a boxer, and he’s looking for one big shot. He’s strong, but I’m so much smarter. A victory, is my ticket to take me back to the US, to fight in the big shows.”

While Avni is keen to fight Anthony Dirrell, if a purse bid can’t be re- assembled with Callum Smith for the vacant WBC crown.  Marco wants a rematch with Badou Jack, who he previously fought to a draw.