8CN Exclusive: Glen Johnson

Have fight, will travel. That is the easiest way to describe Glen Johnson’s career. The seventeen year veteran has been in with the who’s who of fighters. Johnson, known as the Road Warrior, doesn’t take anything for granted in the pugilistic sport. Spotting a record of 49-13-2, the 2004 fighter of the year, has been on the wrong side of numerous bad decisions. Nearing the tale end of his illustrious career that is highlighted by a stunning knockout victory over Roy Jones Jr., the 41 year old Johnson is looking at one last shot to the top. On Friday night, Johnson will square off against Yusaf Mack in an IBF Light Heavyweight title eliminator. Johnson graciously took time out of camp to sit down and talk to 8 Count News before weigh ins Thursday.

8CN: Glen, first I want to thank you for taking the time out to talk. How is your training camp going?

Not a problem. Camp is going great. I am just waiting for weigh-ins this afternoon and excited to fight tomorrow.

8CN: You were originally supposed to fight last week against Yusaf Mack on the Berto-Mosley under card. What were your feelings when that card got cancelled and were you surprised they were able to find a new date so quickly for the fight?

Well I was disappointed when the card got cancelled, but it was understandable. The earthquake in Haiti is bigger than boxing and Berto has bigger issues to deal with at this time. I know he is going through a lot at this time and I wish him all the best.

As for my fight, I had heard rumors ESPN wanted to pick it up, but I never imagined it would come together so soon. I am very happy that the fight was rescheduled so quickly and now the whole world will be able to watch it. It wasn’t a matter of whether the fight would happen or not, but when. It could have been months down the line. With only a week difference, we continued camp and kept working hard.

8CN:What are your thoughts about Mack?

Mack is a good fighter. He has good skills and looks good in most fights, but sometimes he looks very bad. As a fighter myself, I know I go through those moments as well. I know we won’t take each other lightly, but he has never been in with a fighter like me.

If you win this fight Friday against Mack, you get a shot at Cloud for the IBF belt. Would you be willing to make the turnaround and fight again quickly next month or would you want to delay the fight?

It isn’t a problem. Whatever happens happens. If they asked me to fight next week I would. I think with that fight being eight weeks away, there would be enough time for me to prepare for it

8CN: This past weekend, there was a title fight in your (Light heavyweight) division between Shumenov and Campillo. What were your thoughts on that fight?

I actually didn’t see the fight, but I heard Shumenov didn’t look that good. I have never watched him fight, and I really don’t know much about him and don’t really know what he brings to the table. My attitude is to fight all the people that are available and I want the champions and he has what I want.

8CN: Any final comments Champ?

I’m excited about boxing and glad to be back in the ring. Everything turned around so quickly for this fight and I am very thankful and looking forward to fighting Friday night.