It’s official! Erik Skoglund (22-0, 11 KO’s) will defend his IBF Intercontinental light-heavyweight title against Oleksandr Cherviak (15-4-1, 5 KO’s) on September 19 in Nyköping, Sweden.
In a landmark moment for Swedish boxing, the country’s Martial Arts Delegation has approved Team Sauerland’s application for the undefeated 24 year-old to box 12 x three-minute rounds. Skoglund will become the first male boxer to compete in a major title fight on Swedish soil since a ban on professional boxing in 1969.
‘’This is the happiest day of my life,’’ said Skoglund on hearing the news. ‘’ It means everything to me to bring the sport back to Sweden. Boxing has been forbidden since 1969, and although it came back to some degree in 2006, this is going to be the first twelve-round title fight since 1968. We’re making history now and it feels unbelievable!’’
‘’We’re delighted that the Swedish commission have accepted our application,’’ said promoter Nisse Sauerland. ‘’This is a historic decision and we’re ecstatic that Erik will be able to showcase his skills in front of his home fans in Nyköping.
‘’There is no one more deserving of this opportunity then Erik. He is a phenomenal athlete, a great role model and a real ambassador for the sport. This is a fantastic moment for him and for Swedish boxing as a whole.’’
Skoglund’s historic homecoming will be broadcast by Viasat. Per Nunstedt, Head of Sports at Viasat Sport, Sweden has welcomed the Martial Arts Delegation’s decision.
‘’Swedish boxing fans haven’t seen a great male fight since the 60s,’’ said Nunstedt. ‘’So this is a very welcome decision and hopefully the beginning of new era of professional boxing in Sweden.
‘’Erik deserves this chance to fight with the support of a Swedish home crowd. We have broadcast all of his fights so far but, of course, this event will have a special flair and a historic touch. Our Viasat channels has been the home of boxing for many years now, but this adds something extra for us, our viewers and the sport in general. To broadcast a fight like this in Sweden is a real knockout!’’
Venue and ticketing details for Skoglund’s IBF Intercontinental light-heavyweight defence on September 19 in Nyköping will be announced shortly.
