Valuev skips Russian Christmas

Press Release: WBA heavyweight champion Nikolai Valuev is so focused on training that he has no time to celebrate Russian Christmas this weekend. "I need to shift my full concentration to the fight against McCline," the Russian Giant vowed. "I don´t have time for any festivities right now. I have to get myself ready." While his countrymen will enjoy their Christmas break on January 6-7 (in accordance with the Julian calendar), Valuev (45-0, 33 KOs) will continue sparring in Berlin's famous Max Schmeling Gym. "Everything is going according to plan," he said. "I feel in good shape. I´m in the right frame of mind." With his family in town, Valuev did take a brief time-out on New Year´s Eve. "After all the hard work in St. Petersburg I felt I deserved a little rest," Valuev said. "I was sparring again on January 1. But with just two weeks between now and the fight, I can´t risk losing my rhythm." Valuev will clash with fellow giant Jameel McCline (6`6, 265 lbs) in Basle, Switzerland on January 20. "He´s one tough guy," added the undefeated champion. "It will be a very interesting bout." On the same card, Marco "Captain" Huck will defend his regional cruiserweight belt against Ismail Abdoul (Belgium). The 22-year-old (17-0, 14 KOs) notched the first title of his career on December 16 after Pietro Aurino left the ring in the second round. "Abdoul has only lost when he was in the ring with strong opponents," said Huck. "That is exactly what will happen again in Basle on January 20." Abdoul (28-10, 10 KOs) has only been stopped once in his career. "He has just one TKO loss to his name even though he took many fights on short notice," said Huck. "That proves his fighting spirit. I will not underestimate him. My goal is to be world champion one day."