Provodnikov, who is facing Matthysse at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino, Verona, in New York on April 18, isn’t bothered by Roach not manning his corner because he has been used to it.
In October 2013, Roach sent his assistant Marvin Somodio to take the lead in Provodnikov’s corner when he fought Mike Alvarado in Bloomfield, Colorado to snatch the WBO light welterweight title of Alvarado following his loss to Timothy Bradley in March 2013.
For the second time Somodio will most likely take command of Provodnikov’s corner as Roach is busy preparing Manny Pacquiao for his upcoming fight against Floyd Mayweather.
“It’s not a big deal, Marvin Somodio is Freddie Roach right-hand guy and he’s going to be there for me. And I know that he knows what I need to do in the ring, and that all that’s important. For me that’s not a problem,” Provodnikov said.
After winning his first major title against Alvarado following his loss to Bradley, his promoter Bob Arum got Chris Algieri — who was virtually unknown at the time despite his spotless record — to what could have been a turning point in his career.
Provodnikov battered Algieri early in the rounds but the rising fighter from New York held on to win a split decision despite two knockdowns by Provodnikov in the first round.
Despite Roach’s absence in his corner, Provodnikov is determined to win over Matthysse, who has only three defeats in his last 40 pro fights.
A former Pacquiao sparring partner, Provodnikov has been mentioned as possible future opponent of the Filipino boxing star.