:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55892957/630169798.0.jpg)
Cruiserweight titlist Oleksandr Usyk and former titlist Marco Huck will officially open the World Boxing Super Series’ cruiserweight tournament on September 9 where they will face off in a quarterfinals match. ESPN reports that the bout will be held at the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin, Germany.
"The first fight of the tournament will be staged in one of the most famous and influential cities in Europe in one of the most important boxing markets," Comosa AG's Roberto Dalmiglio said. "Two great champions and the first glimpse of one of the favorites in such renowned venue."
Usyk (12-0, 10 KOs), the tournament’s #1 seeded fighter, selected Huck (40-4-1, 27 KOs) as his opening round opponent during the July 8th draft held in Monte Carlo. And speaking on the upcoming fight, Usyk says:
"I can't wait for the start of the tournament," said Usyk, who will be making his third title defense. "I miss the ring and look forward to hearing the opening bell ring again. At the moment I am not thinking of my opponent. I amconcentrated on my preparation. I've got many things to do in my training camp. If he wishes, he may think about me."
That’s about as romantic as it gets in combat sports, people. Usyk, 30, is the clear favorite to win the cruiserweight tournament and continued by saying that he plans on fighting with “passion and devotion.”
Huck, 32, who is considered by many to be a fading fighter after going 2-2 in his last four, will be fighting Usyk in his home country and likely hopes to draw some inspiration from the crowd.
As for the tournament as a whole, a U.S. television deal to broadcast both the cruiserweight and super middleweight tournaments has yet to be finalized. But it will presumably come together before long.