Enrico Koelling (21-1, 6 KOs) will defend his WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight title against Ryno Liebenberg (17-3, 12 KOs) on October 1 at the Jahnsportforum in Neubrandenburg, Germany. The fight will provide chief support for the WBA World Light Heavyweight title fight between Juergen Braehmer and Nathan Cleverly.
Koelling, who claimed the WBA strap with a unanimous points victory over Oleksandr Cherviak at the MBS Arena in Brandenberg in April, will face a tough test from Liebenberg, a dangerous South African, who pushed his stable mate Erik Skoglund to a close points decision in Stockholm earlier this year.
‘’I’m looking forward to this fight,’’ said the 26 year-old. ‘’Liebenberg has proven he can hang with the top guys in the light heavyweight division, and by beating him, I will prove that I can do the same. I want to fight for World titles and this fight is another step in the right direction for me.’’
‘’Koelling is a good boxer,’’ said Liebenberg. ‘’In the amateurs he beat a lot of fighters who are now World-rated, but this is the pros and it’s a different story. He lacks power and movement. He doesn’t dance and run away, he stands and fights, and that suits my style. I know if I land, he’s going to go!’’
‘’This is a chance for Enrico to show that he belongs at the top,’’ said promoter Kalle Sauerland. ‘’If he beats Liebenberg, he will not be far away from a World title shot. It will be a tough fight, full of action. The fans in Neubrandenburg can look forward to an explosive encounter at the Jahnsportforum.’’