News / Sports
Shannon Briggs Begins Road to Recovering Heavyweight Title on Oct. 17, Eying Vitali Klitschko
Former WBO heavyweight champion Shannon Briggs (48-5-1) will mark his return to the ring after a two-year absence with a bout at the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix, Arizona on October 17. 2009.
Briggs, the last American to hold the heavyweight title, has made it clear that he intends to unify the belts and the October bout will be his first step in realizing that goal.
The return of Briggs has drawn new attention to the heavyweight division and attracted some of Hollywood’s most notable names as Jack Nicholson, Brad Pitt and Richard Geer are among the celebrities rumored to be planning on attending the bout. In addition to the Hollywood flavor, the music world will be well represented with Jay-Z and 50 Cent said to be arranging ring side seats.
Briggs was one of the biggest names in boxing when he captured the title with a 12th round knockout of Sergei Liakhovich on November 4, 2006. In his first title defense Briggs, battling “walking pneumonia,” lost a 12-round decision to Sultan Ibragimov and opted to step away from the ring for a period of time.
Now rejuvenated, Briggs described himself as “recharged ad refocused” in an interview with WooEB.com’s Peter Tosto. Briggs said the time off allowed him to get back into shape and ready himself for a run at regaining the heavyweight title.
While Briggs ultimately wants a shot at Vitali Klitschko as well as his brother Wladimir, the Ukranian brothers who currently dominate the heavyweight division, he also has his eyes on a former champ who is expected to be at his fight on October 17.
In his interview with Tosto last week Briggs was questioned about taking on Evander Holyfield and after revealing the two had “a couple run-ins outside the ring” he said the he would love the chance to get the 46-yaer-old inside the ring.
To listen to the interview with Shannon Briggs go to: http://wooeb.com/shannonbriggs and check out his “Interviews.” You can also become a friend of Shannon Briggs and network with the boxing great by becoming a member of the WooEB community. Keep up to date with the latest news on Shannon, view pictures and leave comments by joining his network.
