Last year, Ivan Redkach fought three times but was thwarted from moving his career forward. However, a change in management also brought a change in fortune.

“Last year was frustrating due to a management conflict,” Redkach told Maxboxing, adding, “I was happy to sign with my new manager, Larry Army Jr. Since that date, my career has been moving at a great pace with three fights in six months, the last a main event on ‘ShoBox: The New Generation.’”

The 27-year-old Ukrainian transplant, who now lives in Los Angeles, is coming off a career-best win over Tony Luis to win the vacant USBA lightweight title.

“The Tony Luis fight was great for me and my future. I learned that power alone is not enough to win fights. Sometimes you need to adjust and use finesse and I didn’t do that in the Luis fight. I have learned that valuable lesson and will work on becoming a more complete fighter.”

The win allowed the southpaw to move his record to 16-0 with 13 wins inside the distance. It was also a valuable learning experience.

“Going 10 rounds was important for my career. It showed me I can compete at a high level over 10 rounds. Looking at the CompuBox numbers; it was clear to me that my stamina was great. I didn’t slow down during the later rounds.”

Redkach hopes to keep up his busy schedule of the past few months over the course of 2014.

“I would like to fight four or five more times this year and continue to hone my skills and get ready for my world title run.”

Anson Wainwright - You opened your 2014 campaign with a career-best win over Tony Luis. Looking back, what are your thoughts and comments on the fight?

Ivan Redkach - The Tony Luis fight was great for me and my future. I learned that power alone is not enough to win fights. Sometimes you need to adjust and use finesse and I didn’t do that in the Luis fight. I have learned that valuable lesson and will work on becoming a more complete fighter.

AW - It was a step up for you. You'd never gone 10 rounds before. How did you feel about that and also winning your first pro title?

IR - Going 10 rounds was important for my career. It showed me I can compete at a high level over 10 rounds. Looking at the CompuBox numbers, it was clear to me that my stamina was great. I didn’t slow down during the later rounds. Winning the IBF’s USBA title was an amazing feeling. I am proud to represent the IBF as one of its beltholders.

AW - While it remains early days, when are you looking at fighting next? What's your plan for this year?

IR - I would like to fight four or five more times this year and continue to hone my skills and get ready for my world title run.

AW - Last year, you fought three times but weren't able to get the step-up fight until meeting Luis in January. Was last year frustrating and how important was it to get the fight, then beat someone like Luis to continue your progression?

IR - Last year was frustrating due to a management conflict. I was happy to sign with my new manager, Larry Army Jr. Since that date, my career has been moving at a great pace with three fights in six months, the last a main event on “ShoBox: The New Generation.”

AW - Who are the members of your team?

IR - My team includes Mario Morales - head trainer, Larry Army, Jr. - manager, Danny Garcia – strength-and-conditioning Coordinator and Lou DiBella - promoter.

AW - You're originally from Ukraine. What was it like growing up there?

IR - Ukraine is a great place to grow up but it can be very cold as well. I have been boxing in Ukraine since I was six years old, so my memories mostly revolve around the ring. Outside of my daughter and family, I love boxing the most.

AW - You were a very good amateur; what titles and tournaments did you win? What was your final record?

IR - I was the winner of many Ukrainian National tournaments and European amateur championships. The highlight of my amateur career was being named to the Ukrainian Olympic Team in 2008.

AW - You didn't fight at any of the major championships like Worlds or Olympics; why was this?

IR - This question will have to be answered by the Ukrainian judges and amateur coaches. I felt like I was ready and able to compete in those tournaments but I was always named as an alternate. This motivates me to show the world I am a champion in the pro game.

AW - Can you tell us how the move from Ukraine to Los Angeles came about and how you have settled in since turning pro in 2009? Do you go back and visit friends and family?

IR - I get to go home once a year. Moving to America was a choice I made so that I could get maximum exposure in boxing. So far, I am pleased with the results.

AW – As you are Ukrainian, I suspect you may know Vasyl Lomachenko? He's made quite an impression on the pros in just one fight. His next fight will be for the WBO world featherweight title. What would you say about Lomachenko?

IR - Lomachenko is a very good fighter. I am happy for him and the success that he is already having as a pro.

AW - How do you assess the lightweight division? How far do you feel you are from meeting the top guys?

IR - There are many great fighters in the lightweight division. I will be ready to fight the best in this weight class by year’s end.

AW - In closing, do you have a message for the lightweight division?

IR - I am coming to get my world title, so beware! Also, a special thanks to my fans. Thank you for your support.

Questions and/or comments can be sent to Anson at elraincoat@live.co.uk and you can follow him at www.twitter.com/AnsonWainwright.