Headliner Hopes For World Title Bout In 1997

Obed Sullivan’s belt fits OK.

Sullivan, one of the featured attractions on tonight’s fight card at the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Bingo/Casino in Worley, Idaho, is the International Boxing Federation’s intercontinental heavyweight champion.

But that’s not the title belt the 28-year-old heavyweight from Houston truly desires.

“If everything works out, I might fight for a world title by mid-1997,” said Sullivan (20-1-1), who faces Arthur Weathers (22-9-1), of Louisville. “The belt I have now is a stepping stone.”

Tonight’s seven-bout card begins at 7:30.

Two of Sullivan’s bouts have been shown on HBO. He expects to be on ESPN and USA before the end of the year. He is considered one of the heavyweight division’s top young contenders.

“I’m ready to go in any division, including (against) each and every champion, right now,” Sullivan said. “I like my chances.”

Sullivan has maintained a grueling fight-per-month schedule to stay in shape. He started boxing in the Marines and turned pro in 1992.

He believes his unique name, Obed, adds to his appeal.

“I thought my mom was at Woodstock or something. I was like, ‘Mom, what’s up?’,” Sullivan said. “But she told me it was taken from the Bible. It makes my name unforgettable. Obed Sullivan, you won’t forget that name. In my profession, that’s important.” You just don’t want to be any ordinary fighter.”

Tonight’s other headliner is David Santos, a featherweight from St. Petersburg, Fla., with a 26-0 record. He’ll battle Mexico’s Alex Sanabria (27-13-1).

Other fights are: Simon Ramoni (South Africa) vs. Jesus Chavez (Mexico), junior bantamweights; Spokane’s Frank Vassar vs. Aljenon DeBose (Oakland, Calif.), cruiserweights; plus Shaun Ayers (Kalispell, Mont.) vs. Mike Pearman (Tulsa); Maurice May (Milwaukee) vs. Carl McGrew (Houston); and Robert Geer (San Jose, Calif.) vs. A.J. Moore (St. Louis), all heavyweights.

, DataTimes