Elena Reid Faces Germany’s Susi Kentikian

It’s back to Germany.

While most prizefighters refuse to accept fights in Deutschland, tiny Elena “Baby Doll” Reid loves Germany.

“I love the fans,” said Reid who fought twice in Germany for world title bouts. “They always treat me so nice.”

Once again Reid (19-4-6, 5 KOs) travels to Germany for a world title bout and this time faces quicksilver Susi Kentikian (23-0, 16 KOs) for the WIBF and WBA flyweight world titles on Friday, March 20. The bout is not being televised in the U.S.

Like most female prizefighters, it’s been a rough road for the Las Vegas-based fighter to get fights. It’s been nine months for Reid to get back in the ring.

Though she’s fought to a draw and a loss in her last two fights, Reid looks to change things around against Kentikian, who is undefeated.

“She’s all over the place,” says Reid of Kentikian, who jumps in and out to engage in punches. “She’s a great fighter. She comes forward and she’s strong and aggressive.”

Kentikian has knocked out 15 opponents in her short career including a first round knockout of Mary Ortega in May 2008. Reid needed 10 rounds to beat the same fighter by decision.

But you never know what can happen in the ring.

“That was the funnest fight,” said Reid of her battle with Ortega that took place before Kentikian’s fight.

Most experts pick Kentikian to run over Reid. But the girl known as “Baby Doll” has never been stopped and is known for her strength.

“They say she (Kentikian) hits hard,” said Reid.

While preparing in Las Vegas, Reid was unable to spar with women.

“I wish,” said Reid. “It’s crazy sparring with four or five guys every day. They hit hard and they’re real fast. It’s scary, but it’s good.”

On paper, Kentikian has the knockout advantage over Reid. But if you look further into the German-based fighter’s record, her fight with the Filipina-American fighter is definitely going to be her toughest contest to date.

Experience is a key advantage for Reid, who’s engaged in some great battles with Mexico’s Mariana Juarez, Ava Knight, Lakeysha Williams and a German fighter named Regina Halmich who is now retired.

“Those fights with Regina were great,” said Reid, who fought to a draw with the certain Hall of Fame fighter Halmich. “She was great fighter and very strong.”

Reid hopes her experience helps her thwart the youthful charges expected from super fast Kentikian.

“Fighting in Germany doesn’t compare to women fighting in the United States,” says Reid. “In Germany they treat the women the way men are treated in the states. It’s great.”