Behind Enemy Lines is a recurring feature where boxers share their experiences of traveling to fight in their opponents’ home country.
OSCAR DE LA HOYA
June 5, 2004, MGM Grand, Las Vegas • Titles: WBO middleweight
However, when Schenk withdrew due to illness, Sturm stepped in with just two days’ notice and claimed the title via a 12-round split decision.
Five weeks before the fight, he relocated his camp to Las Vegas and participated in a promotional tour across Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York.
“Seeing someone of his stature live changes everything compared to just watching him on TV. You become aware of his aura, his accomplishments, everything,” he shared. “Being slightly taller than him gave me confidence, and I entered the press conference full of self-assurance, despite doubts from others.”
Sturm enjoyed his stay in Las Vegas, focusing more on training than the typical distractions of the city.
“We had a great training setup outside the Strip, in a hotel without a casino, close to a running track,” he explained. “It was a refreshing environment, making for a very enjoyable time.”
On fight night, Sturm, the champion, was introduced second by Michael Buffer, and made his way to the ring accompanied by “We Will Rock You” by Queen.
“As soon as the bell rang for the first round, I pushed forward to apply pressure,” he detailed. “I felt it was a strong start and perhaps caught Oscar off guard.”
Throughout the fight, Sturm’s jab became a persistent challenge for De La Hoya.
“It was an exciting match. Oscar clearly applied pressure while I realized he had more tricks than I anticipated,” Sturm noted.
“Many said I won, and HBO scored me ahead at 115-113, but the last two rounds that were crucial were taken from me,” he stated, perplexed by the decision. “I felt in control during those rounds.”
The fight amassed 380,000 PPV buys, generating $19 million.
Sturm chose to view the defeat positively, believing it enhanced his career visibility.
“It brought me significant recognition both in Germany and internationally. Despite the outcome, I’m thankful for the opportunity,” he remarked. “I would have liked to return to the U.S., but my promoters focused on making me a star in Germany, which was successful.”
No rematch ever occurred, leaving Sturm with a lingering sense of what could have been.
“I never received a rematch offer, which I find unfortunate; I believe it could have been another great fight,” he concluded.
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