No Backing Down:Tomasz Adamek

By Judi Abate
Boxing Diva

In between a press conference and training in sunny California, Tomasz “Goral” Adamek ( 40-1 27K) had a few minutes to graciously answer questions about his upcoming fight” Ring Of Fire” with Chris Arreola(28-1 25K); a noted elite heavy puncher which is slated for April 24th in Ontario, CA.The bout will be for the NABO and IBF Heavyweight International Championship.

The hard hitting former WBC Light Heavyweight,IBF and Ring Magazine Cruiserweight title holder and current IBF Heavyweight International Champion has set his sights on the Heavyweight division with a world title shot not so far in the distant future. Adamek’s focus and dedication is one characteristic that makes this fighter unstoppable.

Does he feel ready to take on the top heavyweights at this moment? Not quite yet, possibly with the exception of David Haye.But being victorious over Chris Arreola in April will ensure him one step closer to the prestigious heavyweight world title belt. Here’s what Adamek had to say about his upcoming bout:

JA How would you rate your performance against Estrada?
TA I was the winner against very hard to fight, slick fighter. I was never in danger during those 12 rounds, but had to adjust to his style. Every win is important, sometimes is more important to win fight when you are not at your best.

JA Was fighting at 220 lbs. a problem for you in any way?
TA Not at all, it’s my natural weight anyhow. In between the fights I weight around 215, so my body is accustomed to carry this weight. And every next fight it will be better in the ring.

JA Are you looking forward to a match-up with an elite heavyweight puncher-like Arreola?
TA Absolutely, I’m a warrior and he is a warrior. None of us will back down and this is what fans are looking for, aren’t they? I consider myself an elite fighter too. I know he has a punching power, but speed kills. I have speed…

JA Will you be changing anything in your present style when going forward in the heavyweight division?
TA Not really, you cannot change your style at age 34. Especially the style which brought me 2 world championships in 2 different divisions. Just small adjustments, nothing more.

JA Your fans in NJ are tremendous. Will you be able to carry a big following in another venue?
TA I know it will happen, already there are arrangements to bring about 2000, maybe more of my fans to Ontario. There’s a big Polish population in Arizona, same with LA area. Red and white crazies will be there, California there we come!

JA When do you feel you will be ready for a world title shot at heavyweight?
TA I will know more after fight with Chris. Maybe one, maybe two more fights. And depends who I should be fighting. I can fight David Haye today.

JA Would you consider returning to Cruiserweight again?
TA No, this a closed chapter, not likely. I loved there, won all the fights, became a undisputed Ring champion, but my natural progression carried me to heavyweight division.

JA Last question-What is your favorite punch to throw?
TA The one that connects to rivals chin. Really, I don’t have one. If you watch my fights, you will see that I did put people down with various punches, various combinations. Depending of the fight, a straight right could work for me, and another time, left hook will do wonders. This is why is so hard to fight me. You never know.

JA Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Good luck against Arreola.