"I’m tired of sitting in the back row while these so-called contenders, who are beating the same guys I’m beating, get a shot at the title."

BoxingTalk:  Tony, how is preparation going for your fight with Timor Ibragimov?

Tony Thompson:  Preparation is going great.  I had a lot of tough guys sparring with me in camp like Chaz Witherspoon, who put a lot of pressure on me and forced me to fight.

BoxingTalk:  What do you believe to be your biggest advantage in facing Ibragimov?

Tony Thompson:  My will to win.  That’s been my biggest advantage in all my fights.

BoxingTalk:  How much do you think your southpaw stance and the fact that you are nearing a seven year win streak will play a role in this fight?

Tony Thompson:  I think it plays a role in all my fights.  Once my opponents figure out my stance, the fight is over.  This usually gives me control of the fight.

BoxingTalk:  Looking at both your records, you have definitely faced tougher opposition.  That being the case, do you believe you will stop Ibragimov before the final bell sounds?

Tony Thompson:  That’s what I’m going out there to do.  I don’t get paid by the hour.

BoxingTalk:  What are you going to show us on the 16th to prove that you are one to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division?

Tony Thompson:  The same thing I’ve been showing: The ease that I’ve been winning my fights.  I go out there and win almost every round.

BoxingTalk:  How do you feel about fighting at the famed Playboy Mansion?

Tony Thompson:  It’s a wonderful honor, but it’s just a job to me, and I’m going out there to entertain the fans.

BoxingTalk:  With a victory on the 16th, what can we expect from you for the remainder of 2007?

Tony Thompson:  To continue to climb upwards.  I’m tired of sitting in the back row while these so-called contenders who are beating the same guys I’m beating get a shot a the title.

BoxingTalk:  What is your prediction for your fight against Ibragimov?

Tony Thompson:  I think it’s going to be a big showcase fight, and I plan to stop him late maybe in eight.

 

 

M

Send questions and comments to: DNick@BoxingTalk.com