Former WBA bantamweight champion Wladimir Sidorenko (21-1, 7 KOs) returns on May 2nd for a rematch WBA bantamweight champion Anselmo Moreno (24-1-1, 8 KOs) in Bremen, Germany. Their first fight took place on May 31st, 2008 and ended in a unanimous decision 116-113, 116-112, 116-112 for Moreno. Sidorenko has granted an exclusive interview to Fightnews.com.

Wladimir, you are set to return to yourself to the rank of world champion?
Yes, Alex, certainly. I am ready to do it.

After the defeat against Anselmo Moreno, you’ve been quiet. What was that about?
I was preparing for getting back my world champion’s belt. I prepared for this fight a long time. I had hoped the promoter would make the fight in the Ukraine, but it didn’t work out.

That’s what you’ve been engaged in all this time?
Exclusively preparation for the rematch.

Do you think the result of the first fight against Moreno was fair?
The second fight will finally judge us and will show who is stronger. The first fight was very close. I now understand that in a fight against him, I should dominate all during the fight. And I’m ready to do it.

You’re getting a direct rematch against Moreno, was that part of the contract? How did you manage that?
After the first fight, we submitted a protest on the decision of judges. It has been satisfied. Thus, I have remained in #1 in the rankings. This gives me the right to fight for a world title and Moreno has to face me in the ring.

Did you want some tune-up fights if for nothing more than a psychological point of view?
I had such a desire, but it wasn’t possible to do it. I want to do as much as possible to be ready to fight for the championship.

Do you think your long period of inactivity will hurt you coming into a world title fight. Since your first fight with Moreno, he already has had time to gain two victories.
No, I don’t think it will affect me or my actions in the ring. I am fully adjusted. Believe me, I didn’t spend the time in vain. I worked hard.

Tell us about your preparation for this fight?
Very well. Usually I prepare for a fight for two months, but now having thoroughly studied the opponent, I’ve realized the mistakes and this has led to some good work. Next week I’ll begin sparring. Before I was dissatisfied with the sparring partners, but now I have with me two Mexican boxers who fight similarly to Moreno.