Daniel "The Rock" Dawson promises fireworks in his upcoming PABA Jr. Middleweight rematch with Virgil Kalakoda. Their first clash took place in July with the judges split in their scoring: 113-115, 116-112, 114-114. "The rematch will rise above and surpass all expectatations," said Dawson. "There is a lot more at stake this time and the fact we are two of the most competitive and determined fighters in Australia right now, I see more fireworks than last time as both of us will be in even better condition to go harder."
Although the first fight against Kalakoda was "do or die" for Dawson's career, as he explained, he was at an emotional and mental crossroads in his life, but now he feels differently about the upcoming December fight. "The first fight was a draw, an undecided result. My mindset and lifestyle has really changed over the last few months and this is not a do or die fight for me. I am so excited with my conditioning and career, team and direction. I feel like this is the start of an incredible journey and never underestimate my opponent. I see this fight as a stepping stone to the chance of fighting the best in the world in the USA and represent Australia."
With a new challenge comes a different preparation and mindset, which Dawson explains as being fantastic. "I have fine-tuned my nutritional, strength and running programs with my two coaches, Bobby Mayne and Julian Hamilton, to achieve more energy and endurance through the length the fight."
A win for Dawson on December 9 at the WA Italian Club would open doors worldwide for the Australian. "Many opportunities will present themselves for our team after I win this next fight. I'm excited. A fight against the Mundine/LoPorto winner is a serious possibility," he continued. Dawson also went on to say he would love to challenge any of the top Jr. Middleweights. "The names on my goal list to fight would be Miguel Cotto, Saul Alvarez and Cornelius Bundrage, who are some of the top rated and high profile boxers in the division."
"Bring on December 9. It is the best challenge possible and I look forward to rising above with an emphatic victory," concluded the 34-year-old Perth resident.
Tickets for the show, which features Albert Howell, Luke Sharp, as well as the Dawson vs. Kalakoda rematch, can be bought by calling the promoter, Ty Colman, at 0422 787 445.