Press Release: Sebastian Sylvester will make a mandatory defense of his European middleweight title on April 12, 2008 when he takes on Javier Castillejo. Five days ago, the 27-year-old German (28-2, 13 KOs) clinched a unanimous points victory over Francois Bastient.  The experienced Castillejo last scored a KO victory over Mariano Natalio Carrera to become the mandatory
challenger to WBA champion Felix Sturm. Whoever wins on April 12th will hopefully get a world title shot soon. “Castillejo is a tough guy,” Sylvester said. “But a win would put me in a great position for a world title fight. My goal is to become champion. And this is a great opportunity to move one step closer.”

A venue for the clash has yet to be confirmed. However, it will
certainly be in Germany. “We today agreed with Castillejo's management that we will stage the fight,” Sauerland managing director Chris Meyer said. “We´re very happy to give the Hurricane the chance to fight in front of his fans.”

Castillejo (62-7, 42 KOs) made himself a name in Germany by stopping then-champion Felix Sturm in the tenth round of their meeting back in July 2006. He lost the title in the rematch in April 2007. Sylvester knows the Spaniard will be a tough nut to crack. “He is very experienced and strong but I am sure I will beat him,” said the Hurricane.