Press release: Following a statement yesterday from the Sydney 2000 Olympic Gold Medallist and current undefeated heavyweight contender Audley “A-Force” Harrison (19-0, 14KOs) that showed his desire to challenge for the EBU Heavyweight Title, Chris Meyer of Sauerland Events responded by declaring that it would be his fighter, Cengiz Koc (23-1, 15KOs) who would definitely fight Paolo Vidoz (20-2, 12KOs) for the title. Meyer did suggest that he would offer Harrison the chance to fight Koc if he was victorious over Vidoz.

Harrison had the following to say in response to the claims made by Meyer: “I am making a reluctant but necessary response to Chris Meyer’s astonishment that I went public with my desire to fight for the EBU Heavyweight Title and the reasons why that desire is legitimate.”  

“My reason for going public is simple.  I am ready to fight and I deserve a shot. However, as is usual in boxing politics, favoritism is being played out and that just isn’t fair.  The Vidoz-Koc fight will probably not take place until December so why would I wait to say anything when I need to bring this matter to attention immediately as it might have an impact on when I fight for the title?  If I don’t get the opportunity until late January or February, I will be off my intended schedule to be facing a leading contender in my first fight of 2006.”
 
“Also, I want the public to know that I'm ready and willing to make these fights.  Again, regardless of the politics that is being played out, I'm determined to stay positive as I know my time is coming and my opportunity is knocking on the door. Trust me, I will get my opportunity.”
 
“Word of warning - while I’m being denied and the others are getting their shots, I'm in training, improving my skills and talents all the time and I will be even more dangerous when I get my chance. Finally, so I‘m clear, if the opportunity does present itself by having the EBU nominate me, I would gladly box the winner of the fight between Vidoz and Koc.  Hopefully, it won't clash with my world title plans.”
 
“For the record, Koc won the fight in Belgium on points fair and square. It was in a low key tournament a year before the Olympics. The Turkey contest, which was an Olympic qualifier, was an absolute robbery as Koc was punched from pillar to post and ended up with a broken nose. Everyone in the arena knew who the winner was, regardless of the score line.  As is the way of life, Koc was drawn against the Cuban fighter in the first round of the Olympics and was knocked unconscious for five minutes within the first two minutes of the contest. If we do meet, I can guarantee I will take him back to that dark place.”