Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
WBN Editor
‘Bomber’ confident ahead of 'dangerous' test
British light-heavyweight champion Tony Bellew is ready to
prove his world credentials once again in September as the hard-hitting Liverpudlian
tackles former world title challenger Edison Miranda at Alexandra Palace in London on
September 8.
Bellew, 29, has already taken WBO title holder Nathan Cleverly
to the wire in 2011 and hopes to set up another world title crack with an
eye-catching performance over the solid Colombian, who has faced some of the
top fighters in the world in his career.
“I've watched Miranda for many years, I know all about him
and I have a lot of respect for him,” Bellew told World Boxing News.
“I believe he is the most dangerous fighter I have ever
faced. His record speaks for itself.
“His knockout reel also makes great viewing. However if I'm
to progress to the levels I hope to in this game, then I fully expect to be
able to deal with what Edison Miranda brings to the table.
“I am not a one dimensional fighter,” insisted Bellew. “I'm
someone who can carry out game plans and box different ways. Long, short and
medium range and I plan on dominating in this fight.
31 year-old Miranda told WBN yesterday that a centre of the
ring battle with Bellew would suit him, although Bellew will not be rushing
into trading blows with ‘The Panther’ for long periods in the fight.
“A toe-to-toe fight is possible, but I believe fighters
should stick to their own strengths and own strategy.
“I do see at some point going toe-to-toe, but when I do choose
to do that I see only one outcome, Miranda in the referee’s arms.”
‘Bomber’ recently switched from Frank Warren to Eddie Hearn's Matchroom stable as he maps out a blueprint to take him to another
shot at a 175lb champion and hopes to be back in the ring again before the end
of 2012.
“Without doubt I envision another test before the end of the
year, but for now all I'm thinking about is Mr. Miranda,” Bellew said
respectfully.
“I'd rather put all (what went before) behind me now. I have
no personal problem with Frank, things ran there course and I have moved on.”
On his new partnership with Eddie Hearn, Bellew explained: “We
have agreed to take it one fight at a time. I believe he is doing great things I really do. I admire
the relationship he has with his fighters and anyone who doesn't know who (his
father) Barry Hearn does not know boxing.
“He's been there, seen it and done it and owns about ten t-shirts
to prove it.
“I just want to fight
and prove myself and it seems Eddie feels the same way as me.”
Tickets for the bumper night of championship boxing led by Barker and
Bellew are available now priced £40 unreserved, £60 ringside and £120 VIP from
Matchroom Sport on 01277 359900 and www.matchroomboxing.com
Tony Bellew v Edison Miranda will be live on Sky Sports on September 8th.