With a career that keeps building momentum, there’s no question the excitement of Devon Alexander’s touchdown on St. Louis soil on Sunday was just a taste of what fans can expect with a Don King card containing a trio of thrilling title bouts.
In addition to the 140-pound main event and the IBF light heavy title tilt between Tavoris Cloud and Glen Johnson, a third world championship meeting was added by Don King when he announced that Cory Spinks will battle Cornelius “K9” Bundrage for the IBF junior middle strap.
The Detroit native Bundrage is now being guided by Boxing Hall of Fame member and HBO Boxing analyst Emanuel Steward. The legendary Kronk Gym coach granted me an exclusive interview, and I asked him for his take on “The Next Generation.”
He said, “Cory is an exceptional fighter. It’s in his blood. I’ve never seen him devastated or dominated, except for that rematch with Zab Judah. He’s a tough guy to fight, very fast. I was in the corner when he fought Jermain Taylor, who was physically much bigger. I know he’s a tough fighter.
Regarding what fans can expect of his charge, Steward said, “I think that you’re going to be a little surprised somewhat with Cornelius Bundrage, and not just because he’s a much-improved fighter.”
When I tracked down Spinks’ new chief second James “Buddy” McGirt and asked him about his new pupil, he told me camp has been great. As far as sizing up the challenger “K9” he said, “Listen, you got a guy fighting for the title. When a guy gets a shot at the title it brings out everything. So we have to prepare for any and everything. You know, we just gotta be ready.”
When asked about what we can expect, he said, “A spectacular fight. I believe we’ll put on a nice clinic.”
The stage is set for a rare championship tripleheader orchestrated by Don King featuring top talent looking to deliver unforgettable performances.
Tickets for “Gateway to Greatness: The Homecoming” start at $17.50 and are available at the Scottrade Center box office and Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or online at ticketmaster.com.
