Canadian welterweight champion Steve “The Dragon” Claggett had a terrific year in 2014 and was looking for an even better year this year which seems to be just what is happening as Claggett has landed a fight on the under card of HBO’s broadcast of Brandon Rios-Mike Alvarado 3.So just how did Claggett land on the undercard against Russian Konstantin Ponamarev?
“[It was a] random offer,” said Claggett. “I’ve said yes to about 3 or 4 since my last fight but they have all chosen other options. Now my time is here.”
Claggett is a blood and guts fighter willing to take risks so him fighting on a card such as Rios-Alvarado 3 is great for him to show that he can bang as well and a victory on such a card would be the biggest yet in the young career of the Chinese-Canadian.
“Dreams come true. It will be the biggest win of my life and will give me the opportunity to show the whole world what I have been working on my entire life.”
Last year Claggett was lined up to take on Jose Benavidez Jr. but due to an injury the fight did not happen. Should the opportunity come up for a future fight then Claggett is up for it but he is not chasing Benavidez even with his newly won title. Claggett is even happy for Benavidez and his title victory.
“I don’t chase fights, and I don’t follow fighters. If it’s there it is there. I want to fight if the fight is right. Benavidez is a good fighter. I was happy when he won a world title because that’s something that all of us fighters dream about.”
Training for Claggett has been busy with 4 hour gym sessions and high altitude workouts in the freezing cold to help him prepare for his upcoming bout but rest assured, he is ready.
As far as the main event goes, Claggett likes both fighters but feels Rios wins the third time around.
