His opponent is tough Weng Haya (16-5) from the Philippines. Haya is best known for dropping WBO Featherweight champion Orlando Salido twice in their 2011 fight before being stopped himself in the 8th round. Haya has a similar style to Katsidis and is sure to provide a stiff test.
Katsidis will have new trainer Johnny Lewis in his corner and the two have already clicked very well. “Johnny knows the fight game inside out” said Katsidis “and we are working really well as a team”. “He is ultra professional and knows how to properly prepare a fighter”. “Haya is tough but we will be ready”.
Plenty of one liners and tags are afforded boxers but when talking about Katsidis, Lewis genuinely rates his charge. “Michael has settled well and trains hard” said Lewis. “The warrior tag is very justified and his new team has him settled and focussed”. “You are going to see a very impressive and exciting Michael Katsidis on February 21”.
The Katsidis camp are expecting a full house at ‘The Melbourne Pavilion’.