By Phil D. Jay

Former Contender USA star Sam Soliman (40-11, 17 KO’s) is looking to extend his unbeaten run to six bouts when he faces Australian winner Garth Wood on February 19th at the Olympic Park Sports Centre in Homebush, New South Wales.

The 38 year-old, who lost out in the semi-finals of the US-based tournament in 2007, has impressed in stopping four of his last five opponents and taking a routine points victory over world title challenger Eromosele Albert to lead him into a clash with Wood.

‘King’ Soliman is now potentially one fight away from a third world title shot after previously losing out to highly-ranked light-middleweight Anthony Mundine at the super-middleweight limit either side of his trip to the United States and plans to take the opportunity that presents itself against the younger fighter.

“A win over Garth would pretty much have everyone talking,” Soliman told World Boxing News.

“I believe a win would seal a challenge with Daniel Geale in mid-2012 so I can afford no mistakes.

“Garth has proved more than once how he is worthy of receiving the opportunity of a shot at the world title even though he's had a limited amount of fights.

“His victory on the contender and his fifth round KO of Anthony Mundine in 2010 speaks volumes so I will have to be at my best to gain the shot at Geale.”

Wood, 33, played professional Rugby League before beginning his foray into boxing and was overturned by Mundine in his last bout as ‘The Man’ avenged his stoppage loss.

The Sydney fighter is now hoping to get back in the mix at the top of the division with a win over an experienced Soliman and improve on his 10-2-1 record next month.

Phil D. Jay covers boxing for worldboxingnews.net