Felix Sturm, IBF World Middleweight Champion: “I’m not mad or anything. I don’t care about that whole doping theatre anymore. He and his team have to live with that. He’s trying to play games once again but that doesn’t matter to me. I had a perfect preparation and I am in tip-top shape. Photos by Schiffbauer/Team Sturm.

I had to do this fight since he is my mandatory challenger. But that is a good thing because I can make things right. People will forget about the first fight after this one. Back after I fought Soliman last February, I changed my whole attitude towards the sport of boxing. I’m now eating clean and healthy, which makes training a whole lot easier. I know live like an athlete all year around and not only the ten or twelve weeks during training camp. That pays off as I’m in a much, much better shape than before.

I’m looking forward to a great evening and an exciting fight on Saturday. As you know, the first title defense is always the most difficult. But I am the champion and believe me – I will remain the champion.”

Fritz Sdunek, Trainer of Felix Sturm: “Felix is in incredible form. It’s rare to work with an athlete in such good shape. I strongly believe he’ll beat Soliman inside the distance this time.”

Sam Soliman, Mandatory Challenger of the IBF: “If a plan is working, you shouldn’t change it. You should fix it to make it even better. That’s what I have done. I’m grateful to be back in Germany and to be able to fight for the IBF world title. I had perfect sparring during my camp in Denmark. I’ll be even better than the last time around. I will fulfill the dream of family, who’ll be ringside on Saturday, and become world middleweight champion.”

Susi Kentikian, WBA Female Flyweight World Champion: “I don’t know that much about my opponent [Dan Bi-Kim from South Korea] other than that she is an aggressive minded fighter. And I think that’s good for me. I prepared great for this fight and let me tell you, it’s an honor to share a gym with a great and dedicated fighter like Felix. I know that the atmosphere in Krefeld will be electric – and I’m looking forward to making an exciting and successful defense of my crown.”

Konni Konrad, WBA International Light Heavyweight Champion: “Training camp went great. I can’t wait for the fight on Saturday night. It’ll be another step towards my dream – my dream to become light heavyweight champion of the world!”