On Saturday, September 26 at Wembley Arena in London, England, WBA World super middleweight champion Fedor Chudinov (13-0, 10 KOs), from Bratsk, Russia, will defend his title against Frank “The Wise Guy” Buglioni (17-1-1, 13 KOs), currently ranked #4 by the WBA, from of Enfield, London, in the United Kingdom.
Chudinov captured the vacant title with a split-decision victory over multiple world champion Felix Sturm on May 9. The 27-year-old Chudinov isn’t giving himself much of a break. Buglioni, 26, is one of the more talented young fighters in the division. Buglioni is coming off a fifth-round KO win over Fernando Castaneda on July 24.
While Sturm has a big name, he is past his prime. Buglioni will easily represent the stiffest competition Chudinov has faced in his young career. A win would add a layer of respect to the Russian’s short professional résumé.
But Buglioni is looking for more than respect. He has his eyes set on bigger fish if he can capture his first world title. Buglioni’s countrymen, George Groves and IBF champion James DeGale have the 26-year-old’s attention.
“Once I pick up a world title belt all those big domestic clashes open up for me,” said Buglioni. “I see myself on a level with those guys and a win against Chudinov will prove that. However I am not looking past Chudinov. I’m expecting the toughest fight of my career, but you will see a career best Frank Buglioni on the 26th September, my preparations so far have been excellent.”
The Wise Guy spoke specifically about clashing with Hammersmith’s Groves, who will get his own shot at a world title on September 12 when he takes on WBC champion Badou Jack.
Buglioni imagines the bout on a grand scale. There’s no question the fight would likely carry great appeal in the UK.
He said, “It would be a great if we both win our world title fights. A unification fight him at Stamford Bridge in the summer would be a dream come true as we are both big Chelsea fans. We have sparred a lot in the past, he is the quality fighter but I would fancy my chances.”
Wembley is only a few miles away from his home in Winchmore. The chance to capture his first world title so close to his residence is obviously a draw.
“This is what every fighter dreams about,” Buglioni said. “I am not going to blow my chance.”
Don’t expect Chudinov to fold and allow Buglioni’s plans to take shape. He carries a significant KO punch, as evidenced by his 10 knockouts in just 13 fights. Even though Sturm is long in the tooth, defeating him in Germany is still a noteworthy accomplishment.
If Buglioni can pull off the win, it would be quite the victory as he attempts to position himself for a shot at an intriguing unification bout in the future.
This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.
