Naturally, right-handed, Dawson was trained to fight as a southpaw. His tall figure (6'3") and long reach have given him a style that's unique to many world champions. Dawson is one of today's most brightest rising stars. While many, including us consider him a prospect, he is already the WBC and NABF Light Heavyweight Champion. What is more impressive are his victories over Tomasz Adamek (31-1-21KO's) and Eric Harding (23-4, 7KO's).

Dawson is trained by Floyd Mayweather Sr. We see bright things in Dawson's future and while already a champion, believe that he has a lot more to accomplish in the boxing world.

Chad, thanks for taking the time to do the interview. There's been a lot of talk about your past two performances against Tomasz Adamek and Eric Harding. How did you get into boxing?

For me, my father was a fighter so I was always around boxing. I was in the gym watching my father train so I was around the boxing game at an early age. I had my first fight when I was 10. My father played an important role in my development as a fighter.

What or who influenced you to go pro at such a young age?

I was 18 when I went pro and had many influences, my father, my trainers, my family. They all had confidence in me and I was confident in my abilities.

What are the biggest differences you've noticed between the amatuers and the pros?
(laughter) There's a difference both physically and mentally. In the amatuers you can take a loss, but in the pros, a loss is a set-back.

With such a young career, what has been your biggest accomplishment so far?
I think my biggest accomplishment so far has been my last fight, winning the WBC title. There's a lot more I want to do, so I'm not satisfied yet, but its a big accomplishment.

Where do you see yourself in the next few years?
Definitely as the undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion of the world and in the pound-for-pound rankings as the best Light Heavyweight.

What parts of your game do you feel you have to improve?
I think that I have to press my game and finish stronger. Both fights I had Eric Harding and Adamek hurt but needed to take the opportunity to finish them off.

Who would you like to fight next?
I would love to fight Roy [Jones Jr.], Bernard [Hopkins], Tarver [Antonio]. Hopefully they come to their senses and realize to be the best they need to fight me.

Do you see yourself going to heavyweight in the future?
No time soon, maybe in three of four years.

What fighters have influenced your career?
My favorite fighter growing up was Roy. I would love to fight Roy, that would be a dream come true. Floyd Mayweather Jr, De La Hoya, Trinidad, I watched a lot ofdifferent guys when I was coming up.

De La Hoya v.s. Mayweather your pick?
It's gonna be a good one. De La Hoya is tough, but I'll have to pick Mayweather.

When are we going to see you in action?
Early June

Do you know who your opponent is?
No opponent yet, but we got the date. We'll know in the next week - hopefully Glen Johnson.