Both IBF heavyweight champion Chris Byrd and challenger Wladimir Klitschko were loose and in good spirits at today's prefight press conference in Heidelberg, Germany.

"I know that I am the champion," said Byrd. "People think I'm crazy to box in Germany, but I am teeming with strength.....I promise that I won't run away the whole time, but will attack." Byrd was accompanied by his father and trainer Joe Byrd. The senior Byrd stated Chris is in top shape and pointed out "We've boxed against people who are bigger than Wladimir Klitschko."

"This is for everything," Klitschko stated. "Chris Byrd is the number one, but I am ready for him.....I will win the fight." Klitschko's trainer Emanuel Steward acknowledged that Byrd is the best heavyweight in the world, "but after two hard years, Wladimir is again on the way to the top."

The fight will take place Saturday at the sold out SAP Arena in Mannheim and be televised live on HBO at 5PM ET/2PM PT.



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