According to an interview on FiveOncesofPain, IFL President Jay Larkin spoke with confidence, that a fight between Kimbo Slice and IFL Heavyweight Champion Roy “Big Country” Nelson (13-2) have been discussed. Nelson is a big bruising brawler, with a permanent beer belly, a perfect opponent for Slice. His IFL Heavyweight title will give some credibility to Kimbo who has been trying to shake the “Street Fighter” label since starting in mixed martial arts.
Nelsons only defeat in the IFL came by way of Split Decision to newly signed Adrenaline fighter and former IFL heavyweight champion “Big” Ben Rothwell.
“If Kimbo wins, we’ll make that match (Nelson vs. Slice) without hesitation,….We”ll do in on an IFL card or an Elite card — we don’t care. Promotions working together is the only way for this business to grow.”
Both Larkin and Shaw have worked together for over 20 years and the two were involved with numerous boxing co-promotions while Larkin was the head of SHOWTIME Sports. In fact, both Larkin and Shaw are responsible for the creation one of SHOWTIME’s boxing staples, “ShoBox.”
