Russo: an Italian boxing icon.



AIBA Pro Boxing is continuing to unveil its impressive boxer's roster. This week it was the turn of poster-boy, World and Olympic Champion Clemente Russo to take the mantle of APB Boxer of the week.

Clemente Russo is one of the most talked about boxers in the world at the moment. His last major title was the Olympic Silver in London. But the boxer isn't just impressive in the ring. In 2011 he played a main part in the Italian film "Tatanka", and ever since he has been permanent feature in the Italian media. In this, the third of our fan-based articles Russo answers the questions put to him by fans on the APB facebook page.

You were among the first boxers who joined APB. What does this new step mean for you? And what inspired you to sign up?

It is a well-known fact that professional boxing has been going through crisis in recent years. However every boxer who has already got significant results in his amateur career and in the Olympic Games obviously dreams about a further step which is pro boxing. But, as I said the current situation in the market does not provide any security. At the same time, it is not easy to make that decision anyway because it closes the doors to the Olympic Games. This is why AIBA Pro Boxing appeared to be an excellent solution to me. I find that it provides benefits in three areas: you retain your Olympic eligibility, you get an economic security and you can still live your Pro Boxing dream!

APB opens new horizons for boxers, in terms of opponents as well. One of your fans from Ukraine was wondering if you would like to get in the ring with Vladimir Klitschko should there be such an opportunity?

Well, currently we compete in different weight divisions. However should I change my weight category one day, I guess I would really enjoy that fight! I would say that boxers like Klitschko, who compete in the Super Heavyweight division, have a really slow boxing style compared to me. This is why I am quite confident about my chances in such a fight. I would really like to get this opportunity.

You are an amazing boxer Clemente; however, you must practice other sports as well, from time to time?
Of course I do, but, obviously, other sports are just for fun, let`s say a hobby. I cannot dedicate too much time to anything else other than my boxing training as this is my main priority. I quite like playing 5 a side football. I also enjoy horseracing.

What do you find the most efficient tactics when you have to lose weight? Do you have any favorite diet which you could share with your fans?
I rarely gain more than 5 kilos. Therefore it is not that critical for me. Whenever I have to lose weight though, I go on the EnerZone diet which is a simple healthy food regime. It is based on daily protein, carbohydrates, fat and Omega 3 fat acids balance: 40%x30%x30%. It helps me to get rid of up to 5 kilos in 15 days.

How did you find your experience as an actor in "Tatanka"? Have you ever thought about a career in cinema after boxing?
That was an amazing experience! I really enjoyed it! As I am already 31, which means I am becoming "mature", I am already thinking about my future after boxing and hoping it's in cinema. I always enjoyed that. I have always been active in TV shows and in different similar projects. I admit that I do like posing in front of a camera and I've managed quite well so far. To tell the truth I get different requests from cinema and related industries all the time, but I've decided to postpone all of them for four or five years' time, when my contact with APB expires.