Idman.biz interview of Azerbaijani boxer Ali Ismayilov
-You won the title of champion of the CIS countries at the boxing night held in Moscow. How would you rate Rasul Magomedov the battle you won?
-Of course, I appreciate it at a very high level. After a long break, I am proud to return to the ring at the age of 50 and achieve such a result. I can confidently say that I brought the first CIS belt to Azerbaijan. It was Ali Ismayilov who was able to do this.
-How did you decide to return to the ring after a long time?
-During the pandemic, there were no competitions and we could not participate in training. At that time, I was also watching Mike Tyson's training process and his fight in Miami after the pandemic through the Internet. As if that speech of the legend made me "sick". I thought, if 57-year-old Tyson can do it, why can't I do it at 50? And so it happened. After a year of strong preparation and getting myself in shape, I already participated in competitions.
-How was the preparation?
-I prepared very seriously for this fight. Because he was a serious competitor. It would not suit us to lose here. We had our main trainings at Sabail Sports Club. We did joint exercises under the leadership of Zaur Geibullayev. I spent the whole day cross-country running on the new boulevard, strengthening my breathing. I have already put myself in good shape.
-Are you already thinking about the next fight?
-Our future plans are big. I have to defend this belt that I won. Then I will do my best to win the European and world belt. I aimed to bring the European belt to Azerbaijan. If these plans hold, I will continue professional boxing. I will not turn from this path until I feel the strength in myself.
-How does it feel to win the belt at the age of 50?
-It was incredible for me. I never dreamed that I would become a champion at the age of 50. But when I returned to professional boxing, I set myself the goal that I would become a world champion at the age of 50, like the world-famous and well-known people in this field.
-When will your next opponents be determined?
-There is nothing definite yet. We know the opponents 2-3 months before the competition and sign a contract. Regardless of the opponents, I will try to win them all.
Banuchichek Huseynli
Idman.biz
