Erik Skoglund (21-0, 11 KOs) meets his first ‘big-name’ opponent on December 13 when the Nordic Fight Night returns to the Albertslund MusikTeatret in Copenhagen. The rising Swedish star will face former world champion Glen Johnson (54-19-2, 37 KOs).
Skoglund, who is ranked #3 with the IBF and #4 with the WBO, has been vocal about his desire to challenge for a world title in 2015, and the young Swede aims to prove he is ready for a step up to world level by beating the 75-fight superstar on December 13.
‘’Glen Johnson is a huge name in the world of boxing,’’ said Skoglund. ‘’He’s been in the game for a long time and has fought everybody. He is still one of the best light heavyweights out there. This is another big step up for me but I’m ready for the challenge.
‘’It’s a fight I need to win and it’s a fight I’m confident I will win. I’ve already proven that I belong at European level, by beating Johnson, I will prove that I belong at world level!’’
Skoglund will face a tough test on December 13, with Johnson, the former IBF and Ring Magazine World Light Heavyweight Champion, coming to Copenhagen with world title ambitions of his own.
‘’Skoglund is good boxer with a lot of potential,’’ said Johnson. ‘’But I think my experience will play a big part in this fight. I know what I have to do and on December 13, I’m going to get in there and get the job done. There is still a lot more I want to achieve. I want become world champion again. I wouldn’t still be boxing if I didn’t think I could do it. By beating a young, up and coming fighter like Skoglund, I will put myself right back in the mix.’’
Said promoter Nisse Sauerland: ‘’Erik is going to have his work cut out on December 13 against a bonafied boxing star. This is exactly the type of fight he needs to prove he is ready to challenge for a world title next year. It’s make or break for both men and it’s sure to be an explosive encounter. We have a great show lined up for December 13, with lots of big fights to be announced in the coming weeks. It’s the last Nordic Fight Night of 2014 and we’re going to end the year with a bang!’’
Skoglund is joined in action by Danish boxing brothers Patrick and Micki Nielsen, who will co-headline the show at the Albertslund MusikTeatret. Full undercard details will be announced shortly. Tickets are on sale now and available via billetnet.dk.
