Micki Nielsen (21-0, 14 KOs) will take part in a ‘Super 4’ cruiserweight tournament that will see the undefeated southpaw pitted against some of the division’s top talents to win a share of the $100,000 prize money.
Nielsen will be competing against South African fighters Johnny Muller (19-5-2, 13 KOs) and Kevin Larena (13-1, 7 KOs) plus former World title challenger Roberto Bolonti (37-5, 26 KOs) in the four-man tournament organised by South African promoter Golden Gloves.
The tournament begins on April 24 when Muller and Larena meet at the Emperors Palace in Gauteng, South Africa. The winner of that fight will go on to face Bolonti on June 11, while the loser will be matched against Nielsen. The two winners will then advance to the final on October 22 where the $100,000 prize money will be split 60-40 in favour of the victor.
Nielsen returns following a heroic defence of his WBC International title against Mirko Larghetti on March 19 in Copenhagen, which saw the Danish fighter fracture his metacarpal in the sixth-round.
Having taken time out for his hand to heal, the 23 year-old will resume normal training later this month, giving him optimum time to prepare for his first tournament fight on June 11.
‘’This will be a great experience for me,’’ says Nieslen. ‘’My victory over Larghetti has given me a lot of confidence, and I believe I can win this ‘Super 4’ tournament. By winning, I will prove that I can become one of the best cruiserweights in the world.
‘’I’ve boxed in Russia before, so I’m not worried about fighting in South Africa. It creates more excitement to fight away from home, and I have no problem with that. My hand injury has almost healed and I’m looking forward to getting into super shape before travelling to South Africa for my first fight.’’
‘’We’re delighted to be working with Rodney Berman of Golden Gloves on this exiting ‘Super 4’ tournament,’’ said promoter Nisse Sauerland. ‘’This is a great opportunity for Micki to test himself against some of the top names in the cruiserweight division and gain vital experience fighting away from home.
‘’In his last fight, Micki overcame an injury to claim an impressive victory against a former World title challenger and proved he is ready to compete against the very best. This next test will be hardest yet, but we’re confident in his ability and believe he has what it takes to win this tournament!’’