'Mile High' Mike Alvarado To Defend Title In Front Of Hometown Fans

DENVER (AP/CBS4) — Russian boxer Ruslan Provodnikov had a handshake and a friendly pat on the head for his American opponent. Mike Alvarado presented his challenger a bright orange Denver Broncos jersey bearing the name of his hometown team's quarterback, Peyton Manning.

Provodnikov and Alvarado appeared together at a news conference at Elway's restaurant previewing their WBO junior welterweight title fight set for Oct. 19 at the 1stBANK Center in nearby Broomfield. The bout represents Alvarado's first title defense.

"He's coming to steal the show from me in my hometown. That being said alone just motivates me that much more," Alvarado said.

Alvarado takes a record of 34-1, including 23 KOs, into the upcoming bout against Provodnikov.

Provodnikov, the WBO's No. 1 ranked contender, has assembled a record of 22-2 with 15 KOs over his six-year pro career.

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