By: Matthew N. Becher
Lucian Bute (32-2 25KO) is the former IBF Super Middleweight champion. He is a thirty-five year old Romanian, who now fights out of Quebec, Canada. In 2012, he lost his title to future Hall of Famer, Carl Froch for his first professional loss. And last year he lost a rough and tough battle against fellow countryman Jean Pascal in the Light Heavyweight division.
On November 28th from the Centre Videotron in his hometown of Quebec City, Lucian Bute will get another shot at reclaiming the belt he lost in 2012 against British fighter James DeGale. Lucian was nice enough to take a few moments and speak with us about his upcoming championship fight.
Boxing Insider: So what do you know about your opponent James DeGale?
Lucian Bute: I saw his last fight with Dirrell. I know that he is an Olympic Champion in 2008, now he is the IBF Champion. I expect a good fight. He is a good southpaw fighter. He sometimes can switch to right handed well. He has good skill, good power and good speed. He is good.
Boxing Insider: Are you comfortable going back down to the Super Middleweight division, after stepping up to Light Heavyweight briefly?
Lucian Bute: Of course. I have no problem with the weights. I am very comfortable at 168. I was champion of the division for five years. Absolutely no problem with this weight.
Boxing Insider: How about your age, do you feel that will play a role in this fight, being the older fighter?
Lucian Bute: I think the age helps. I have more experience since he is younger. It is an advantage for me.
Boxing Insider: Your last fight at Super Middleweight was against Carl Froch, which was your first loss. How did you get this title shot so quickly after that?
Lucian Bute: It was a learning experience for me to lose my belt in England. I had to learn some things and I stayed out of the ring for two years. Now I feel more comfortable with who I am, and I am very happy to have this opportunity to fight for the world title.
Boxing Insider: How important is it for you to have this fight in Quebec, which is your adoptive city?
Lucian Bute: It is very important for me because this fight will be in MY home town. My crowd will be my people, my fans, behind me, supporting me. I’m very happy that this fight is taking place here in Canada.
Boxing Insider: Do you see this fight as a “last chance” for you to get a title?
Lucian Bute: I don’t think so. I feel great, I ‘m healthy, I go to the gym every day. I love what I do. I don’t think so. I’m looking very forward to November 28th to be one more time a world champion. This is my goal, this is my dream.
Boxing Insider: Is there a chance of you moving up to light heavyweight in the future?
Lucian Bute: I don’t think so, I prefer to stay at 168. It is my weight, my class. At this weight I feel very comfortable. It would be more difficult for me to move up to 175.
