The ‘Golden Boy’ returns following a sensational first-round knockout victory over Varazdat Chernikov on December 19 at the Rosvalla Arena in Nyköping to take on the dangerous British-based Gambian known as the ‘Tiger’.
In preparation for their super middleweight showdown, Ahlin is in Las Vegas where he has been sparring with Swedish World Champion Badou Jack.
‘’It’s great work,’’ said Ahlin. ‘’Las Vegas is the fight capital of the World so there is lots of quality sparring here. I’ve had some good sessions with Badou and I’ve been learning a lot. I will be coming back to Stockholm better than ever and ready to claim another great win on April 23.’’
His opponent has other ideas. Having made a name for himself by becoming the youngest-ever winner of the popular Prizefighter tournament in 2010, the ‘Tiger’ has built a fierce reputation in the UK, and has warned Ahlin to expect his toughest night’s work on April 23.
‘’They may call him the ‘Golden Boy’ but he has never fought anyone like me. The ‘Tiger’ is coming for him and I’m 100% confident I will win,’’ he said.
‘’He has been stopped before so I know he can be beat. I will use my experience and boxing ability to inflict his second defeat. My mother lives in Gothenburg so Sweden is like a second home for me and I want to give the public a fight to remember. After I beat Ahlin, I’m sure I will have a lot of new fans in Sweden.’’
Promoter Nisse Sauerland says Ahlin must be well prepared for what he believes will be the Stokholm fighter’s biggest career test. ‘’This is going to be an exciting fight and one I’m sure the fans will enjoy,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’Mendy is a dangerous opponent and this could well be Oscar’s toughest test. He will need to be prepared or we could be in for an upset.’’
Ahlin’s fight with Mendy is the latest addition to a blockbuster bill in the Swedish capital. In a co-featured main event, IBF Intercontinental Champion Erik Skoglund faces the tough South African Ryno Liebenberg and WBC Female World Super Welterweight Champion Mikaela Lauren defends her title against former World Champion Ivana Habazin.
On the undercard, London 2012 Olympian Anthony Yigit takes on British-boxer Chris Goodwin, while former World title challenger Klara Svensson rematches Lucia Morelli and Sundsvall heavyweight Otto Wallin returns to the ring.
Tickets for the Nordic Fight Night on April 23 at the Hovet in Stockholm are available online via www.globearenas.se and www.AXS.com, by calling (+46) 0771-31 00 00 and from the Stockholm Globe Arenas Box Office.
