Josh Kelly believes an aggressive approach from David Avanesyan will play right into his hands in the eagerly-anticipated European title confrontation.
Unbeaten Kelly challenges for the Russian’s EBU welterweight belt at the SSE Arena in Wembley on Saturday, February 20, in a Sky Sports-screened match-up taking place at the fourth time of asking.
It’s a fascinating contest pitting the flamboyance of Kelly against the relentless approach of a champion who is in the form of his life.
While the Sunderland boxer is not shy about displaying his skills, Avanesyan is not too reticent either as he has proven in three Euro demolition jobs in his last three appearances.
The 32-year-old reigned in Spain by first taking the belt from Kerman Lejarraga with a ninth-round stoppage in Bilbao before needing only a round to clinch the re-match.
And the former WBA world champion won his second defence against Jose del Rio in Barcelona, also in the first minute.
“I think it will be pressure, pressure, pressure from him,” explained Kelly. “Let him bring it.
“That’s what I’ve trained for, I’ll be disappointed if he doesn’t bring the pressure.
“His style suits me all day. He’s a strong, capable fighter, but in terms of skills, I’m not sure he comes near me.”
The 12th, 13th and 14th stoppage wins of Avanesyan’s 30-fight career show just how good the 32-year-old is.
It is, without doubt, the toughest contest of the career of ‘Pretty Boy’, whose record stands at 10 wins and a draw, with six of his wins coming early.
However, he feels it will inspire him to new levels.
“I know I’m in for a hard fight but it’s one I’m capable of winning, 100 per cent,” said the 2016 Rio Olympian.
“Saturday should bring the best out of me, people have not seen the best of me yet, not by a mile.
“I feel good, I feel calm, I feel on point, it’s the best I’ve ever done the weight.
“I’ve total respect for David and the important thing is we’ll both be going back to our families fit and healthy, but I know I’ll be the one walking away with the European title.”
Given the current form guide you would say if anyone was going to win early it would be the Newark-based title holder.
But Kelly says he’s a “big and very strong welterweight” and believes he has the power to stop Ava and is not just a slick boxer and mover.
“If it goes points, it goes points but either way, I’m winning,” he declared. “I think a big stoppage is coming.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Mark Robinson/ Matchroom
