Let the Unification Begin

By Julian Kasdin (Nov 9, 2006)

http://www.doghouseboxing.com/Kasdin/Kasdin_110906.htm

Heavyweight unification seems to be the most desired thing in the sport at the moment, and it seems that the fans might finally get their wish. After winning the WBO title via 12th round KO over Sergei Liakhovich, Shannon ‘The Cannon’ Briggs, 48-4-1 (42), will be squaring off against WBA champion ‘The Russian Giant’ Nikolai Valuev, 45-0 (33), sometime in early 2007.

This fight, which will take place in New York City, pits two of the most marketable and talked about fighters in the division against each other in the hopes of crowning a unified champion. Briggs, who came from behind to beat Liakhovich, is a master at marketing himself, and as the only American titleholder will surely draw in many American fans who believe that the heavyweight title is an American birthright. Valuev is probably the most talked about man in the heavyweight division. His size and undefeated record, which is inching ever closer to Rocky Marciano’s, make him a growing attraction.

If Valuev wins his next fight then Madison Square Garden will be home to Shannon’s attempt to bring all the belts back to Brownsville and Valuev’s attempt to chase history. Let’s hope everything stays on course so that this fight can come off and some clarity can be restored to the heavyweight division.