Q&A With Shawn Porter
by Paul Hampton (on behalf of V2)
In December of last year, American Welterweight Shawn Porter announced himself on the world stage. In Brooklyn, New York the man known as 'Showtime' put in a performance of the highest order to usurp IBF champion Devon Alexander. It was an upset result for many, though not for Shawn himself. His self confidence and determination shone through as out-fought, out boxed & out hustled the now ex-champion; leaving nobody in doubt as to who was the winner come the end of the fight.
We had a chance to catch up with the IBF Welterweight champion & put forward some questions regarding that fight, the future & much more.
Paul: Hi Shawn, thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. Was the Alexander performance your toughest fight to date?
SP: Looking back on it, I think Julio Diaz was a tougher opponent. He punched harder. And presented more problems for me in the ring. Although Devon was the champ, he wasn't the best champ I've faced.
Paul:Given the history of Alexander fights were their any concerns about the decision going against you at the end?
SP: There was no doubt in my mind I had won the fight!! I didn't even pay attention to the scores as they were read lol. From the moment of the final bell, I tried to enjoy every second of it because I knew I won!!
Paul: 2014 could see you fioht British Welterweight Kell Brook?
SP: I really don't know. I looked at him I think maybe sometime last year. I haven't studied him or payed him much attention. But I'm sure if that fight happens ill be prepared for everything he'll bring.
Paul: Would you be willing to come to the UK to fight Brook or will Brook be travelling to the US?
SP: I'm a true champion and im not looking to pass on anyone. If the fight does happen then it will happen here in the US. I never faired too well with the judges when I fought internationally in the amateur program, and I don't really care to try to as a pro.
Paul: What has been the hardest thing you've faced in your career so far?
SP: I sat out a year from 2011 to 2012 with a contract issue... Aside from that everyday is hard training!!
Paul: What is your dream venue to fight at?
SP: Honestly it's the Cleveland Cavaliers arena. It was called The Gund Arena when I was growing up. I can remember going to a few fights there when I was young and I remember looking around thinking "I can't wait to fight here". It's called "The Q" now but I still have that same feeling. Other than that probably the MGM grand.