Granit Stein vs Felix Sturm announced

Granit Stein's career is entering its crucial phase

On July 11th, the Fides Sports Promotion protégé Granit Stein will face none other than Felix Sturm at the Porsche Arena in Stuttgart.

For the former five-time world champion in the middleweight and super-middleweight divisions, it will be the final professional fight of his extraordinary career. For Stein, however, it could be the night he finally arrives on the big stage of German boxing.

The fact that there are only a few weeks between his last fight and the duel with Sturm is not something the 29-year-old sees as a disadvantage. "That's not a big problem for me. The fight with Felix Sturm was already scheduled. I'm fit and physically well prepared," Stein explains.

To take on the challenge, the former super middleweight is moving up to light heavyweight. He doesn't see this as a decisive factor: "It's not a huge leap from super middleweight to light heavyweight. It's worth it for this huge fight," Stein says with a smile. "The preparation is basically the same."

What makes the duel particularly special is the story behind the two boxers. Like many young German boxers, Granit Stein followed the career of Felix Sturm for years. Sturm is a multiple world champion and considered one of the most successful German professional boxers of all time. "Felix Sturm is a legend, a multiple world champion, and a role model for many boxers," says Stein. "But now it's a different time; it's my time. I want to show that I can compete at the highest level."

Despite his opponent's impressive career, Stein is adamant that there will be no room for sentimentality on fight night: "It's a special feeling to be in the ring against such a top fighter. But emotionally, every boxing match is the same. I constantly find new motivation and am fully focused."

When the offer to fight came, Stein didn't hesitate. "I immediately said yes. Not everyone gets an opportunity like this. A huge thank you to my promoter, Burim Sylejmani, who arranged everything."

While many observers see the fight as a grand farewell for Felix Sturm, Stein views the situation from a different perspective. "I have nothing to lose in this fight. I can only win, and I will win."

He also puts his much-discussed statement, "A Sturm can't hurt a Stein," into perspective: "That's self-confidence. I will give everything to seize this opportunity and show everyone that I'm ready for fights like this."

At the same time, Stein criticizes the trend in professional boxing, where protecting one's own record often takes precedence: "Many wouldn't even dare to step into the ring against Felix Sturm because they're afraid of ruining their winning record. Boxing needs exactly these kinds of matchups. That's what revitalizes the sport."

On July 11th in Stuttgart, a German boxing legend will face a challenger who sees his big opportunity. For Felix Sturm, it's about a fitting farewell. For Granit Stein, it's about the chance to write his own story.

The fight promises not only sporting excitement but also emotional moments: On one side, a legend lacing up his gloves one last time. On the other, a hungry challenger eager to seize the opportunity of a lifetime.

Tickets are available at https://www.easyticket.de/veranstaltung/felix-sturm-one-last-dance/105756