Sergey Kovalev: ‘Alvarez proves Adonis Stevenson is scared’

ON August 4 in Atlantic City Sergey Kovalev puts his WBO light-heavyweight world title on the line against Eleider Alvarez.

“I’m very happy, [to come] back to Atlantic City, because I don’t care where I fight, but I am most happy when I’m in famous arenas like Atlantic City, Madison Square Garden. It’s very big motivation to prove that you’re the best and I’m going to show August 4 that I deserve it,” Kovalev said.

He emphasises that Alvarez will be a serious challenger. “I can say about Alvarez that I’m waiting for a very interesting fight and I am sure that it’s not going to be easy to fight Alvarez because he is undefeated and he is a number one in the WBC. [Adonis] Stevenson avoided him already like two or three times and he’s the proof that he [Stevenson] is scared. But I’m not scared of him and I’m interested to fight him and get the victory over him. Just pay attention on August 4 and be ready. I will defend my title,” the Russian said.

Kovalev is a fearsome puncher but Colombia’s Alvarez insists he’s ready for the Russian. “If I was scared then I wouldn’t be boxing. That’s the reason why I picked this sport. Despite the fact that I haven’t faced any world champs in a fight in the past, I have faced guys who were power punchers so it’s not an issue for me,” Eleider declared.

Kovalev is a former unified world champion. He wants to reclaim his belts and ultimately win all the belts to become undisputed.

“I’m ready to fight any champion,” Kovalev declared, “because my goal is to get all four titles, to be undisputed champion.”