Ike Quartey coming back at 147

19/07/2007

Ike Quartey coming back at 147

Boxing's best division getting deeper

Press Release: Ghanaian Boxing superstar Ike “Bazooka” Quartey (37-4-1, 31 KO’s) is ready to start fighting again.  While he is busy preparing for the opening of his new hospital in Accra, he has already begun training preparation for his next battle.  The former WBA welterweight champion will be moving back down to the 147 pound weight class.  The change comes after losing a December decision at middleweight against Winky Wright, who has actually gone up in weight to 170 for his next fight. “Even though everyone knows that I beat [Vernon] Forrest [in August 2006], I did have a tough night against Winky.  Neither fight was at the right weight for me,” said Quartey.  “I feel like I can be slicker and move better in the ring at 147.  Fighting at welter will allow me to polish my defense and have a much more explosive offense in the ring. I still have fire and ability,” said Quartey. "The Bazooka” has had a storied career which has seen him fight some of the greatest pugilists in the sport including back-to-back bouts against Oscar De La Hoya and Fernando Vargas.  Quartey looks forward to stepping back into the ring in September or October.