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Photo © Tom Casino/ SHOWTIME
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For undefeated Jr. Welterweight ‘Mighty’ Mike Arnaoutis, a lot of his life has been about transition. Born in Athens, Greece, Mike would have to adapt to the American way of life after moving over through the sport of boxing. As the years went by Arnaoutis would also make the transition from prospect to contender, and is looking to make the ultimate transition from contender to world champion in 2006. With his wide range of skills, his confidence in tact, and the right team behind him it is a dream that could easily become a reality this year.
Arnaoutis’ next fight is a homecoming of sorts, as he makes his way back to Atlantic City on January 27th for a Pay Per View showdown at the Tropicana. With such talent as Virgil Hill, Stevie ‘Lil’ But Bad’ Johnston, and Nate Campbell on the card, Arnaoutis is in good company and will be looking to start the year off on a high note.
I was able to catch up with Mike and his manager Mike Michael to get his thoughts on his upcoming fight, his desire to fight WBO champion Miguel Cotto, his appreciation of America, and much more. We hope you enjoy the read...
January 27th in Atlantic City…
‘I’m know it’s going to be a great night. I’m gracious to be on a card like this, as the co-main event to Virgil Hill’s fight. I don’t think things like this are possible but it’s happening to me and it’s great.
Goals for 2006…
‘I have one goal and goal alone and that is to win the world title.
Sizing up Miguel Cotto…
‘I’m coming after Miguel Cotto. He’s a world champion and that speaks for itself. He’s beaten some good fighters but he hasn’t fought me. I respect what he’s done but it doesn’t mean that I’m not capable of beating him and becoming a world champion.
Improving…
‘With each fight I keep improving and I feel that my punching power has gotten better. I’m a technical fighter and I’m also durable. People tell me I’ve got a good chin and I think if I’ve got all these things then I got a strong possibility of becoming a world champion.
Best memories…
‘I can never forget when I fought Juan Urango down in Florida. That was a very big breakthrough for me. That will always be one of my favorite fights and one of my favorite places. When I won first world title of many that I will win, I was in California and I can never forget that. I love going into opponent’s backyards and proving people wrong.
The straight and narrow…
‘I was born and raised in Athens. I was a little bit of a handful as a youngster, which is why I got into boxing. Boxing is my life and I really haven’t dealt with anything else. I feel that truly kept me on the straight and narrow and helped make me into the person I am today. I love boxing and I love to fight.
The American way of life…
‘I came to America with my manager Mike Michael. I’ve been with him for a while and he told me that we had to come to the States. It was a dream come true for me. I love America and I love the American way of life. I love the opportunity that I have and I will not waste it. I feel that America is the greatest country on the planet.
A disease…
‘I feel that boxing is a disease. It’s taken over my body and I can’t get it out of my system. I live for the sport and I don’t want to do anything. When it comes time for me to retire I just can’t see myself contemplating anything else, so I’ll still be involved in the sport. It’s just taken me over.
For the fans…
‘A fighter is like an actor. He has to give an Oscar worthy performance to his fans so they can keep coming back, supporting him, and helping him grow. For me, everytime I step into the ring I have to give my best just for my fans.
Born to be a fighter…
‘People were born for certain things. I consider myself to be in that category and feel that I was born to be a fighter. I still pinch myself silly everyday, to make sure that this all is a reality to me. This is just what I love to do with my life.
Openly and lovingly…
‘I’d like to say to all the American public and everybody across the world that I am getting closer to a world title and I thank everybody for helping me get there. From the fans that I’ve created to the fans that will be created. When I win the championship I will defend it as much as I can. I just want to thank the U.S. for taking me in with open arms and I’d never thought I’d be accepted in this country so openly and so lovingly.’
Mighty Mike’s manager Mike Michael added: ‘We’ve worked very hard over a period of time to groom Mike to the point where we believe he’ll be ready for a world title fight. Basically, we believe that his style is suited to defeat Cotto, even thought Cotto is considered a King Kong. We believe Mike is the full package.'
*This Article is Sponsored by http://www.healthycoco.com/ |
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© Copyright / All Rights reserved: Doghouse Boxing 1998-2006
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INTERVIEW By Chris Robinson (January 4, 2006)
