In a fascinating clash set for April, South Africa’s Ryno Liebenberg will fight world-rated Erik Skoglund of Sweden.
Golden Gloves and Sauerland Promotions have agreed to provisional terms and the contract is expected to be signed in coming days.
The fight will come as a great boon to Liebenberg who lost his world ranking last year after defeats to Eleider Alvarez and Tommy Oosthuizen.
Skoglund is rated by three of the big organisations – 14 in the WBC, third in the IBF and ninth in the WBO.
Unbeaten in 24 fights, Skoglund holds wins over former champion Glen Johnson and highly rated Derek Edwards.
“This might be a bridge too far, but it’s a great opportunity for Ryno who only ever comes to fight,” said Berman. “Skoglund will probably start favourite, but there’s no accounting for Ryno’s heart and relentless fighting style.”
Trainer Colin Nathan welcomes the fight and says they are already hard at work preparing.
“I saw footage on Monday. Skoglund is competent, nice and neat. He throws good combos. But I’ve seen holes in his game. I won’t say too much because I know him and the Sauerlands will read this.
“It’s make or break for Ryno. When he wins, he’ll be right up there. After the disappointment of Tommy Oosthuizen, the pressure is on us to produce the goods. It’s a tough fight and we don’t expect to win a decision in Europe, but that’s okay. Ryno will be ready to win.”
