WBC middleweight champion Jermall Charlo is aiming high. The unbeaten Houston fighter is motivated by a shot at greatness.
An important step towards that lofty goal will take place on September 26 when Charlo faces No.1 contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko, his toughest test yet, at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut.
Charlo-Derevyanchenko is part of a captivating Showtime PPV double-header that also features twin brother Jermell Charlo, Jermall’s young sibling by one minute, in a 154lbs unification bout with rival champion Jeison Rosario.
WBC 160lbs king Jermall (30-0, 22 KOs) is focused on maximising that spotlight as he seeks to break into superstar status.
“I know that it’s my time to shine and my time to give everyone the best that I can give. I’m striving to be one of the best to ever lace up a pair of gloves,” said Charlo (30-0, 22 KOs). “The fans that love me can expect me to do what I do. The fans who don’t know about me, they’re going to see a smart, strong and athletic fighter. You’re going to see all of it in the ring on September 26.
“I came from nothing, so I want to put everyone on. I want to make sure [trainer] Ronnie Shields gets into the Hall of Fame. We’re looking to do something in boxing that no one has ever done.
“When I look outside this gym, I say there’s no way I’m losing. I’m carrying my whole family on my back. Houston, we have another one. I’m doing it for everybody here.
“I’m telling those other middleweights to buckle your seatbelts. It’s lift off. Everyone that doubted me, everyone who wants a chance, you’ll get your turn. I’m running the show. You just stay locked in.
“My power is growing along with me. With some fights you need to add more power and sometimes your power just naturally increases. I’ve gotten a lot stronger and a lot smarter, so I’ve been able to use my skills to go along with my power heading into this fight.
“Derevyanchenko is a come forward fighter. He’s going to bring a lot of power and speed with good technical skills. He calls himself ‘The Technician’ but we’ll see how technical he is once I start putting my jab in his face. I’m going to use all my natural skills in this fight.
“After I win this fight the sky is the limit. I know people will respect me a lot more after this, but I’m focused on only this fight. This fight is another big stepping stone toward even bigger fights to come.
“A lot of people don’t really know where the Charlos came from and they’re getting the chance to learn it throughout this time. It’s taken to this point for everyone to see that we belong on this big stage. I’m grateful for everyone around me who’s embraced me with love.
“We don’t have too much longer to be doing this. Where are the rest of the belts at? I’m ready. Watch next Saturday night [September 26], because I’m making this statement loud for everyone who doubted me.”
Main image: Jermall Charlo accounts for Brandon Adams. Photo: Esther Lin/Showtime.