Published by on November 10th, 2008
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By Scoop Malinowski
A year ago after losing to Cliff Couser, Monte Barrett seriously considered a move down to cruiserweight. But those plans were nixed and 37-year-old Barrett has his career on a serious roll, winning three contests in a row. Next up is this weekend’s huge event in London’s O 2 Arena against rising force David Haye. If Barrett (34-6, 20 KO’s) can conquer the outspoken Londoner, the world will be his oyster – though a loss to Haye could spell the time for Two Gunz to hang up the holster. But Barrett is confident he will take care of business with Mr. Haye and is already looking to the future beyond November 16…
Boxinginsider: What do you think of this guy Haye shooting his mouth off, calling everyone in the heavyweight division a disgrace? Were you offended by this newcomer’s temerity?
Monte Barrett: “Not at all. I just want him to step up to the plate. He said heavyweights are so out of shape, they don’t train hard, they don’t take their jobs seriously. I just figured I’ll call him out and let him know, Okay, let’s get it on.”
Boxinginsider: He kind of delayed accepting you as his opponent after you made yourself publicly very available. He glossed over you and tried to take JD Chapman, Ray Mercer, Kevin Johnson…
Monte Barrett: “Chapman, Eddie Chambers, Johnson. But at the end of the day, it’s like this, whatever is meant to happen should happen. God’s will is stronger than all the beings in the world. And I feel like this: I knew for some reason in my heart, I knew I would fight David Haye. That was the first name I called out after the Tye Fields fight. And I felt strong about it. When things didn’t go my way, I didn’t panic. I just stayed focused and I knew things would work out. So eventually he came around to his senses. He’s so cocky it works against him sometimes. And he felt like he’s gonna take me out and use me as a measuring stick. Because I fought (Wladimir) Klitschko, he wanna fight Klitschko.”
Boxinginsider: Is it more difficult to fight over there or in another country? Can it distract and effect your routines and performance?
Monte Barrett: “I look forward to fighting period. I don’t care where it is. I’m much more as you know stronger – I knocked out five guys for this training camp. I’m more focused, not just with head shots. Body shots as well. I’m stronger, I’m wiser. I have a lot more patience. Before when I was younger, I just wanted what I wanted when I wanted it. Now I’m more, it’s gonna come around. Just have a li’l patience. So I’m looking forward to fight whenever I have to fight. England is not my favorite place because of the weather but I love it because of the fashion, I love the people. And I’m looking forward to going over there and beating up David Haye. I’m looking to fight Klitschko after this, Vitali.”
