Nathan Cleverly: A Letter from America

Unbeaten Welshman Nathan Cleverly makes the fourth defence of his WBO World Light-Heavyweight title in the City of Angels against Shawn Hawk at the Staples Center on Saturday evening.

Since arriving last Friday, Cleverly has visited Mickey Rourke’s house, sparred at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card gym and impressed at a public workout at MacArthur Park on Monday afternoon. American and Hispanic media were keen to interview Cleverly.

He said: “I didn’t expect this type of reaction, but I am really enjoying it.”

Cleverly, 25, had the unexpected spar yesterday morning feeling he needed a few rounds against an orthodox boxer like late sub Hawk, having initially prepared for a southpaw.

Nathan added: “This is the place to be. This is where the graft is done. It is a great place to be in and I am glad I am experiencing the atmosphere here.

“I am doing it early on in my career which is better than later on when I may look back and regret not doing it earlier.

“I am nice and early in my career now at the age of 25 and taking this opportunity means I can look back with no regrets.”

Cleverly v Hawk will be shown live and exclusive in the UK on BoxNation (Sky 437/Virgin546). Join at boxnation.com