By Alexey Sukachev
“2009 will be a special year for Denis Lebedev, one of the most talented Russian prospects around,” says his manager Vladimir Hrunov. “Only tough opponents, no gimmies will be considered. It’s time for a serious breakthrough for him.” Lebedev (16-0, 11 KOs) will fight a next on March 14th at M.E.N Arena in Manchester, England, on the big Amir Khan–Marco Antonio Barrera undercard. Several opponents are being mentioned for a scheduled ten-rounder, including Jaffa Ballogou (46-7, 40 KOs), Ola Afolabi (13-1-3, 5 KOs), Imamu Mayfield (25-9-2, 18 KOs) and Mathew Ellis (20-6-1, 9 KOs). Lebedev, promoted by Frank Warren, is now in preparation for an upcoming challenge under the guidance of Valery Belov, Alexander Povetkin’s head coach.
