Despite Austin Trout’s recent victory over fellow Australian Frank LoPorto, Anthony Mundine isn’t concerned about facing the world super welterweight champion.
In Texas, Trout showcased his skills by completely dominating LoPorto, with the fight being stopped by the referee in the sixth round, resulting in a technical knockout that improved his unbeaten record to 24-0 (14KOs).
However, 36-year-old Mundine, the WBA’s No.1 contender and mandatory challenger, remains unimpressed.
“He’s a fast-paced fighter and he’ll try to up the tempo, but I’m versatile and have faced all kinds of fighters,” Mundine stated.
“Winning against LoPorto might boost his confidence; he may feel a bit more lively, but once we step into the ring, he’ll understand he’s not up against the same caliber of opponent he’s been fighting.”
“I firmly believe he has never encountered anyone like me, and that night, I’m going to be a force to be reckoned with.”
Trout, aged 26, has until late April to take on Mundine, though there are discussions within his camp about possibly targeting the winner of next month’s high-profile clash between boxing greats WBA super welterweight champion Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito.
Trout’s trainer Louie Burke mentioned that while Mundine is “probably” the next opponent for Trout, nothing is ever set in stone in the boxing world.
“This fight means a lot financially for us,” said Burke.
“I don’t anticipate Austin having too tough a time with him.”
With a record of (43-4, 25 KOs), Mundine believes Trout is being “over-confident” if he’s considering anything beyond their match.
After recovering from his September bout against Rigoberto Alvarez, Mundine has been unwinding and spending quality time with family until his next fight is scheduled.
“It doesn’t matter where or when,” he expressed.
“Just give me eight solid weeks, and I’ll be prepared.”
“I’m eager for this to happen; I want it to unfold.
“Trout is a young champion and should aim to defend his title against top fighters, and I’m among the best.”
by Buford Balony
