By Dean Parr

On May 11th, Andreas Evensen, 13-1 (5 early), successfully made his first defence of the WBO Intercontinental featherweight title, stopping tough Argentinean Jose Saez, 17-10-4 (8 KOs) in the sixth round of their contest in Kirkkonummi, Finland.  The Champion was satisfied with his showing.

He declared, “Everybody says to me that this was my best fight so far, but as a perfectionist I always feel I can do better, and be faster and stronger.  But all in all I'm satisfied with the result!”

Evensen divulged what the gameplan was going into this.  “We saw some videos of Saez when he fought Steve Molitor, and he was much like what we knew from before,” stated Andreas.

“He was a slugger who waited to place his power punches, but I didn't think he was as good at ducking and upper body movement as he was.  But the plan was to hold a high tempo and work with straight and fast punches.  When the opportunity came I had to place my power punches, but he was slick!”

The Norwegian also lauded the durability of his foe.  !On a scale of 1-10 I would give him a 9 or even maybe 10 for toughness," admitted ‘Kid Colombia’.

“I don't think he would’ve stopped if the referee hadn't have stopped it.  He was experienced and almost tricked me with his acting.  When I came to him he fired power punches from every angle, and I was a bit surprised by that!  He is a kind of fighter who can make all other fighters look bad and I almost lost my head sometimes in the heat of the moment because of his slickness.”

This represented the fourth straight stoppage for the 24 year-old, and he believes this is by no means down to luck.  “I think my advantage is that I can hold this kind of tempo and fire power punches from round one to round twelve,” he analysed.

“I'd honestly say that I thought after a while that the fight would've gone the distance, because I didn't feel I was connecting with my power punches.”

With Evensen gaining yet another win, the prospect of a world title gets ever closer, and the Melhus native is confident of making history and becoming the first Norwegian world champion.

“It’s not a question of if I can, just when,” he enthused.  “I believe I have the talent, discipline and the right training environment to be a world champion.  I think Helge (my coach) is much like Freddie Roach, and we make a good team!”

In the immediate future, after this defence, Andreas would like to pick up another strap. He stated, “This was the first time I defended this Intercontinental title, and I feel ready to go for a bigger title!”

To conclude, Evensen had some thanks to make for the people around him and his supporters.  Andreas said, “I'd like to thank P3 Promotions and Pekka Maki for once again fixing me a fight and keeping me busy, and there is nothing better than fighting and entertaining people at the event and the people who watches the fight on the television.

“Also, my closest friends and family, especially Mona Goa for being so understanding and patient with me.  I hope I'll be fighting in England again for the English fans who follow me and cheer me on!  Your support means a lot to me!”