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Talk is cheap, responds the champion. Tatli and Lancia will clash for the EBU lightweight title in Helsinki on 17th December.
It’s not an easy task to challenge the champion in his home ring, but Italian contender Manuel Lancia (14–1–1) doesn’t mind. He’s confident that he can claim the European Boxing Union’s lightweight title anywhere – be it in Italy or Edis Tatli’s (28–1–0) place of residence, Helsinki.
“We have discovered Tatli’s weakness. We saw something, and we’re working on it,” says Lancia.
It will be a mountain to climb, though. The reigning champion Tatli is no joke, and Lancia’s only defeat as a pro came against Massimilliano Ballisai, whom Tatli faced and won last March in Espoo, Finland.
That’s why Lancia doesn’t spare himself in his preparations. He knows this will be one of the hardest fights of his career, and he has to be in top condition to win.
“Tatli reminds me of Jean Pierre Bauwens, whom I won a year ago. Bauwens was a tough guy too,” says Lancia.
“It’s hard work to prepare for a title fight, but I must be in great shape to become a champion. I’ve boxed for 13 years, so I know what I must do to beat him. My determination is my greatest weapon.”
Tatli doesn’t seem to be very concerned of Lancia’s talks about his weaknesses. The champion has no plans to give his title belt away.
“Everybody has weaknesses. But it’s my strengths that will be too much for Lancia to handle”, says Tatli.
We will see on 17th December which fighter will triumph.
Tatli vs. Lancia is part of “All In” boxing event held in Hartwall Arena, Helsinki. The event, promoted by Dominus Boxing Group, will co-feature two other championship fights, as women’s WBC super featherweight champion Eva Wahlström defends her title against Anahi Esther Sanchez and super middleweight prospect Niklas Räsänen challenges Mariano Hilario for the EU title. Also in a heavyweight clash, Robert Helenius faces the experienced Gonzalo Omar Basile.
The event will be televised by Viaplay.
