Gervonta Davis is convinced that Mario Barrios has made an error by accepting to fight him and has promised an explosive night of action on Saturday.
Davis, a world champion at 130lbs and 135lbs, steps up in weight to challenge Barrios for his WBA ‘Regular’ Super Lightweight crown at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a battle of undefeated fighters.
‘Tank’ viciously knocked out Leo Santa Cruz in six rounds in October and has vowed to record a 24th knockout if the opportunity arises.
“I think he is making a mistake,” the 26-year-old said during Thursday’s press conference.
“It’s not just the height. He thinks he’s stronger than me, so we are just going to have to wait and see. If he believes that I’ve never seen anyone like him, then so be it. But they always learn on fight night. That’s when the real me comes out.
“I’ve been working each and every day in the gym to become a better fighter for Saturday night. I can’t wait to see the performance I put on.
“Moving up to 140 is definitely a great opportunity. I’m looking forward to it and I’m ready to give the fans what they want to see, which is a great fight.
“You know I’m coming. I’m excited to be in this position, I’m soaking it all in. Saturday night is going to be a great night of boxing.
“It’s going to be an exciting fight on my end and if I hurt him, we know that I am going to get him out of there. It’s going to be an explosive night for the sport of boxing.”
Barrios makes a second defence of his WBA title, having stopped Ryan Karl in six rounds on the undercard of Davis’ victory over Santa Cruz.
The Texan has just over a four inch height and reach advantage over his rival and is the natural 140 pounder, yet Tank who is promoted by Hall of Famer, Floyd Mayweather Jr insists he always holds his own with taller sparring partners and believes that Barrios is in for a shock.
“When I fight bigger guys in the gym, I always show up,” the Baltimore native added.
“I hate when people think that I’m small and try to take advantage of me. This is one of the fights where you will see the best of Gervonta Davis.
“It’s going to surprise him when I connect. It’s not only that I hit hard, but it’s where I place my punches and he will see that Saturday night.
“Once again, it’s going to be a great night, not just my fight but the whole card. I actually plan on coming to the arena early because I want to see the undercard.
“Saturday is going to be a great night for boxing.”
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