Big time boxing returns to Stockholm on April 23 with the Nordic Fight Night.
IBF Intercontinental Champion Erik Skoglund (24-0, 11 KOs) takes on tough South African Ryno Liebenberg (17-2, 12 KOs).
Skoglund has been at the forefront of the revival in Swedish professional boxing. Last September, the 24 year-old from Nyköping made history when defending his IBF title against Oleksandr Cherviak – the first fight over championship distance on Swedish soil since the ban on professional boxing in 1969.
Three months later, the “Swedish Sensation” returned with a one-sided points victory over the American knockout specialist Derek Edwards – the only man to have beaten current Swedish world champion Badou Jack.
Now, Skoglund must prepare for his next challenge, a 12-round battle with the 31-year-old South African Liebenberg, who is coming to Stockholm full of confidence, believing he has the beating of the IBF Intercontinental champion.
“Erik can run, but he can’t hide. I’m coming for him,” says Liebenberg, who has been vocal about his desire to face the Swedish star.
“The South African fans know me: I come to fight from the beginning to the end, and will do everything it takes to get the decision. Erik is well-schooled, well-rounded boxer, but I’m confident I can beat him!
“I’ll prepare for this fight the same way I always do, with lots of hard work. The only change is I’m doing more running because I think Skoglund will be doing lots of running in the ring trying to keep out of range from my punches.”
Skoglund, who is already four weeks into his training camp, expects his South African opponent to provide a stern test, but plans to prove he is ready for a world title challenge with his first victory of 2016.
“Ryno is a tough opponent,” says Skoglund. “He’s more of a brawler than a boxer, but he is a dangerous fighter. He’s strong and he can punch. It will be a good test for me.
“He’s been up against some of the best. He did a really good job against Tommy Oosthuizen, which ended in a split decision, and I think if I put in a good performance and get a clear decision, it will show that I’m ready for a world title challenge.
“We brought professional boxing back to Sweden last year, but now we need big shows like this in the capital city to build more interest. I’m looking forward to fighting in Stockholm at the Hovet.
“I’m sure lots of my fans from Nyköping will travel to support me, and I hope people from Stockholm and all over Sweden will get behind me as well, as this is going to be another great night for Swedish boxing!”
Promoter Nisse Sauerland is pleased to be hosting his first show in Stockholm and is promising fans an action-packed night of boxing.
“We’re delighted to be bringing the Nordic Fight Night to Stockholm,” said Sauerland. “The Hovet is a fantastic venue and will provide the perfect setting for an evening of world-class boxing action.
“Erik Skoglund faces another tough test against Ryno Liebenberg, who is a serious opponent and will be coming to Stockholm to win. He will need to bring his A-game or could find himself in trouble, but a win for Erik would be a big statement and bring him closer to the big fights he craves.
“Alongside our main event, we will be bringing fans another championship contest and a full undercard showcasing the very best of Swedish boxing. This is our first show in the capital and we plan to make it one to remember.”
Further information including ticket details and undercard announcements will be released shortly.
