Wildcard For k1 Oceania Announced

Tarik Solak has confirmed the identity of the 'Mystery Wildcard Fighter' for the K-1 Oceania 2001 tournament to be held at Melbourne's plush Crown Casino on February 24.

The fighter's name is MUHAMMED "ALI" AZZOUI.

Muhammed Ali is a 24-year-old Algerian Olympic heavyweight boxer who competed in the 2000 Sydney Games.

The six-foot-three, brooding heavyweight with a chiselled physique knocked out the greatest ever Olympic boxing champion - Felix Savon (Cuba) - two years ago. What made the victory even more impressive is that Muhammad knocked Savon out in just one round - in Cuba!!

Muhammed Ali is now trained in kickboxing by former triple world champion Prince Amir at the Braveheart Gym.

When asked how Ali is progressing in his training, Prince Amir today smiled and said "spot on! He has developed powerful kicks, good defences you know how sharp and quick his hands are."

Those who attended the K-1 Victoria Star Wars supershow at Festival Hall last Novemver would have seen Muhammed Ali in action during his boxing exhibition against Pierre Karam. The sublime boxing skills of Ali were on show for all to see.

Ali will face New Zealand's Ron Sefo in the second quarter final of the K-1 Oceania tournament. A victory against Sefo will secure him a semi final showdown against either Peter Graham or the technician Phil Fagan.

Ali isn't fazed by the star-studded K-1 Oceania line-up. Says the fistic phenom in broken English: "I come to fight...I come to win. Watch. See."

Ali's inclusion in the K-1 Oceania adds a distinct international element to the contest already billed as the most 'anticipated night of martial arts/kickboxing ever in Australasia'.

Ali embraces the 'wildcard' concept in every aspect. Super promoter Tarik Solak declared that he would deliver a surprise package - and he has.

Muhammed 'Ali' Azzoui. Watch. See.

NB K-1 Oceania Tickets on sale by mid week. $200 ringside (first four rows), $50 all other seating, $35 standing

*** For more information contact MICHAEL SCHIAVELLO on 0419 333 103 or k1oceania@bigpond.com.au