Former undisputed lightweight (up to 61.2 kg) champion, Australian George Kambosos (21-2, 10 KOs), described the strongest fighting qualities of his next opponent, three-division former champion Vasyl Lomachenko (17-3, 11 KOs).
"He's got an IQ like Albert Einstein of boxing. Lomachenko, at 100%, still has a lot of energy. But I don't believe he's the same fighter now. I don't think he wants it as much as he used to.
You can never underestimate a guy like Lomachenko. I'd be the biggest idiot if I did that. Lomachenko is a great fighter, a guy we have a lot of respect for. We're preparing for the best version of Lomachenko. Once the bell rings, the respect will be gone, and it will be time to do the job.
I've got an incredible plan for the fight. I had a camp with fantastic sparring partners who resemble Lomachenko, and I've got plans from A to Z. You have to adapt against a guy like Lomachenko.
He's got great IQ, great footwork, but he also likes to come forward. We've got our own tricks up our sleeves. Do we need to intimidate him? We'll wait and see. I'll be ready to adapt, and it will be an intense fight to remember.
I'm very explosive and dynamic. I'm not afraid of anyone. I'm moving towards being the best. My resume speaks for itself. I want a tough battle. I want a fight.
It excites and motivates me to go up against a fighter I've admired, who has proven himself in fights. The atmosphere will be incredible," said Kambosos.
Lomachenko and Kambosos will face off on May 12 in Australia. The IBO and IBF lightweight titles will be on the line.