WBA heavyweight title contender Hasim Rahman has issued an unequivocal threat to knock out regular champion Alexander Povetkin when they clash in Germany later this month.
The September 29 bout is to take place at the Alsterdorf Sporthalle in Hamburg, where the American who has knocked out his last five opponents warned the same fate awaits the Russian.
“I know that I’m 100% ready and I that’s why I’m completely confident of myself. On September 29, I will knock Povetkin out,” Rahman said in comments carried by the website of his promoter Sauerland Events.
The 39-year-old veteran, a former WBC and IBF champion who has a record of 50 victories, seven defeats and two draws, said that experience would be the telling factor.
“My experience is priceless. I’ve already fought in the world's biggest rings and I know how to stay focused,” said Rahman.
The American boxer paid tribute to his opponent.
“Povetkin is a very good boxer and I have respect for him. But his strengths and weaknesses don’t mean anything to me. When I’m in top form, there’s no one who can stand against me.”
Povetkin, 33, has won all of his 24 fights, with 16 by way of knockout.
