"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.
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