BBC SPORT | Boxing | Pudwill in profile

Joe Calzaghe's new opponent for the 14 December show in Newcastle follows in the tradition of Charles Brewer and Thomas Tate in that he is a former victim of Germany's IBF Super Middleweight champion Sven Ottke.

But whereas Brewer is considered world class and Tate was a respected operator, Tocker Pudwill falls closer to the category of journeyman.

New foes for Hatton and Calzaghe

My game plan is to take Calzaghe out early

Tocker Pudwill

The 31-year-old has a record of 39-4 (14), but the 12-round points defeat to Ottke in June 2000 is the most impressive fight on his record.

Since then the man from Mandan, North Dakota, has mostly been involved in a string of club fights and casino shows.

Pudwill was a late replacement for Thomas Tate

He was taking a break from training when his manager Brent Kitzan told him that he was being given the chance to claim Calzaghe's WBO Super Middleweight crown.

"I wish it were different circumstances, but I have had three fights in the last three-and-a-half months (all wins), so I'm in shape,'' Pudwill said.

"It's another shot at a world title, and that's what I wanted.''

The American's geography seems a little confused, but he is already talking a good fight.

Ottke is a better defensive fighter, but Calzaghe is a better offensive fighter

Tocker Pudwill

"I know going into his hometown a decision is not in the question," Pudwill said. "My game plan is to take him out early."

He has respect for the undefeated Calzaghe, though.

"He's the best out there, I know it's going to be a very difficult fight," said the American.

"Ottke is a better defensive fighter, but Calzaghe is a better offensive fighter."

Kitzan claims that, whatever the result of the Calzaghe fight, his man has been offered a shot at Eric Lucas' WBC Super Middleweight title.

Few would expect Calzaghe to have many problems despatching his new opponent, but it seems a long road from Tocker Pudwill to Bernard Hopkins.

Cocky Calzaghe eyes the Executioner


	Links to more Boxing stories