Conor Benn says Adrian Granados will not derail his world title ambitions and insists he is more determined than ever heading into their showdown.
Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) clashes with experienced contender, Granados (21-8-3, 15 KOs) at the first edition of Matchroom Fight Camp on July 31st, live on DAZN.
‘The Destroyer’ has top 10 rankings in two out of the four governing bodies and has his sights set on a world title opportunity in the coming years, a dream he warns his rival, who has predicted a stoppage victory, will not take from him.
“We’ve seen all of the Mexicans come over around derail some of the Brits,” Benn said to Matchroom Boxing.
“It’s about time I set the score straight. Granados presents a different struggle.
“He’s saying he wants to box and all of that. Alright then mate – try me. He can prepare for King Kong, he can prepare for whoever he wants, it doesn’t bother me.
“Do what you’ve got to do. Do what you want. Prepare how you want. It isn’t going to make any difference come fight night. I’m up for it – more than ever.
“I’m hungrier now more than ever, and if he thinks I’m going to let him get in the way of me getting my world title he’s got another thing coming that’s for sure.”
The Brit blew away Samuel Vargas in the opening round in April to make a fourth defence of his WBA Continental welterweight crown.
Benn, the son of former two-weight world champion, Nigel says the pressure is on his shoulders every time he fights, but believes his winning mentality will see him emulate his father in becoming a world champion.
“Last time out – big statement,” said Benn.
“I’m interested to see how much further we can go. Do I believe I can win a world title? 100%. There will always be critics. There will always be naysayers.
“It’s impossible for them because that’s their mindset. That’s why they sit on social media projecting their faults. I don’t think anything is impossible. If I wanted to switch and do whatever it is – it could be absolutely anything – I’ll make it successful. It’s not just boxing. It’s my mindset, it’s what I do.
“I’ve had a target on my back ever since I turned pro because my dad is Nigel Benn. It’s as simple as that. ‘The Dark Destroyer’, the legend.
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“People like to call me silver spoon, but I’ve chosen the hardest sport in the world. I don’t have to be here. I have everything to lose. I’m a winner – all round.
“Of course I want the big fights. I want to be the best fighter in Britain – which I believe I am. The rankings don’t lie and I’m number one.”
The rising, unbeaten contender has promised an all-action affair against the 31-year-old, who was held to a majority decision draw against Jose Luis Sanchez in his last outing in May.
“For me to be headlining the first Fight Camp show, live on DAZN, is a blessing.
“Entertainment is what you’ll get from me. Value for money. Expect fireworks every single time I fight. I don’t care who you are, nobody wants to watch a boring fight. I’m here for a good time, not a long time.”