Croatian heavyweight prospect Filip Hrgovic says it is time to make a big statement when he heads back to the United States to face Rydell Booker on November 7.
‘El Animal’ will lock horns with the 26-3 Booker behind closed doors at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida (live on DAZN).
Fresh off a third-round stoppage of Alexandre Kartozia in Denmark, Hrgovic (11-0 with nine inside distance) knows Booker will present a much tougher challenge.
The 39-year-old American took IBF mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev the distance in his last outing. Pulev of course challenges for Anthony Joshua’s world titles on December 12.
The 28-year-old Hrgovic said: “I can’t wait to go back to America to fight again. Booker is a skilful fighter. He had a good fight with Kubrat Pulev. He went the distance and won the first few rounds. I think I can do better. I want to make a statement and finish the fight early.
“Booker was one of my sparring partners before I fought Gregory Corbin. I know him well and he knows me, so I’m looking forward to the fight. He has good skills and technique, but I will be better prepared and in better shape. I don’t think he’ll be able to handle my power and my pressure!”
Promoter Nisse Sauerland is eager to keep Hrgovic busy following that nine-month hiatus due to the ongoing global pandemic. And he feels the man from Zagreb has what it takes to challenge the very best in boxing’s marquee weight class.
“Filip has the style to trouble every heavyweight in division. He has dynamite in both hands as he showed in his last fight, and I think he will demonstrate that power again against Booker.
“It’s important for Filip to stay busy as we’re expecting a huge 2021 for him. He’s ready for the world title.”
