Andre Dirrell © AP

"I felt okay in the Cunningham fight. I got the win, the KO, and my timing felt good, so I'm satisfied. 2012 will be my biggest year yet, I feel," stated super middleweight contender Andre Dirrell, who gave us a quick update on his future plans as we kick off this new year of boxing. "I want to be back in the ring soon, definitely within the next three months, and as far as who'd I want next, whoever will help boost my career," he continued.

While there's a number of options available to the former Super Six tournament contestant, the one that he won't be taking anytime soon is a clash with WBA, WBC, Ring Magazine and Super Six champion Andre Ward, who also happens to be a good friend. "Not until I get my credibility up with or close to his. A few more fights, then it'll make for a much bigger fight and payday for both of us down the line," Dirrell stated, making it clear that he has no problems stepping into the ring to face his friend, but at this point, he'd much rather build up his own name to make the reward worthy of putting their friendship to the side.

While he may not be quite ready for a showdown with Ward, Andre noted that his brother, Anthony, is more than ready. Meanwhile, he plans on setting his sights on another undefeated champion, IBF champion Lucian Bute. "He [Ward] has the belts, so that's up to Ward to decide, and Anthony is the mandatory, so it's not in my hands to decide who fights him next," Dirrell continued. "I wanna fight Bute as soon as possible, so when the opportunity presents itself, I'll be ready to step up to the plate."