Andre Dirrell Looks to Please Crowd and Stop Opponent

By Darren Nichols

15/02/2007

Andre Dirrell Looks to Please Crowd and Stop Opponent

"I’m going to be what the crowd wants to see."

BoxingTalk:  Andre, how is training going for your fight this Friday against Kenny Kost?

Andre Dirrell:  I’ve been working really hard for this fight, and I’m in tip-top shape.  It was a good training camp and I’m focused.  I’m going into that ring 100% to do my thing.

BoxingTalk:  What do you know about your opponent?

Andre Dirrell:  He’s 11-2, he’s fought Andre Ward, and I know Andre handled him easily.  I know he throws a lot of hooks, so I’ll keep my jab in his face, and I expect to stop him.

BoxingTalk:  Most of your wins have come by knockout.  What happens if you get into the ring with Kost, and realize he can take your best shot?

Andre Dirrell:  I throw punches in bunches, so I’ll throw them all day if I have to and wear him out.

BoxingTalk:  Do you feel any added pressure knowing that this fight is televised?

Andre Dirrell:  It’s always a little added pressure when the fight is televised.  Any boxer knows that it’s just another step up when the fight is televised, but I handle pressure very well, and I’m going to go out there and surprise a lot of people.

BoxingTalk:  You had five fights in 2005 and five fights in 2006, are we going to you see you in the ring at least five times this year?

Andre Dirrell:  Definitely, I’m trying to get as close as I can to that world championship.  When I get around 18 fights then I’ll fight for the championship.

BoxingTalk:  The super middleweight division has gained some momentum over the past two years.  What do you feel you have to offer to your division?

Andre Dirrell:  There are a lot of prospects, and knowing that I have a lot of hand speed and sharp punches, I’m going to be what the crowd wants to see.

BoxingTalk:  What do you feel a win this Friday will do for your career?

Andre Dirrell:  Just another step up.  Each fight gets me that much closer to the championship.

BoxingTalk:  What can we expect to see from you once the bell rings on Friday?

Andre Dirrell:  Speed.  I’m going to use my hands, and go out here and do what I do best.

M

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