Change of opponent for Filip Hrgović’s debut Las Vegas fight this weekend
- by croatiaweek
- in Sport
There has been a late change of opponent for Croatian boxer Filip Hrgović for his debut bout in Las Vegas this weekend.
The undefeated Croatian was set to fight American Scott Alexander on the undercard of the Devin Haney v Jojo Diaz fight on December 4th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas but will now face Emir Ahmatović.
Ahmatović, a Serbia-born Geman heavyweight who has yet to lose in his career, was unveiled as Hrgović’s new opponent for Saturday night at the press conference this week in Las Vegas.
The 34-year-old is ranked 119th in the world and last fought in May. Hrgović, who is ranked 33rd in the world and has 13 wins from 13 fights, is a huge favourite for the fight.
“Last week I got a call for the fight against Hrgović and I said of course I want to fight him. I am 100% here to win,” Ahmatović said.
Hrgović said he needs to stay focused on Saturday night and not underestimate his opponent.
👁️👁️ #HrgovicAhmatovic
— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) December 3, 2021
El Animal defends his IBF International Heavyweight Title this Saturday! pic.twitter.com/QoYOe6884D
It has been a frustrating last couple of years for Hrgović, who is still waiting to fight a top-class opponent.
“It has been a frustrating time for Filip, the whole IBF situation, we went through the top 15 I think twice, no-one wants to fight Filip. Next year someone is going to have to fight him for the mandatory and I believe you are looking at the new world champ. 2022 is going to be Filip Hrgović’s year,” said his manager Nisse Sauerland at the press conference.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has promised the Croatian that the IBF eliminator fight will be next for him if he is victorious on Saturday.
“I don’t know what is going on. You (Eddie Hearn) are the biggest promoter in the world. I hope you find someone to fight me, I am looking forward to big fights and I am ready for anyone. I know I have the quality and talent to become the best fighter in the world,” Hrgović said.
