Former IBF heavyweight champion Charles Martin says he has no doubt he will knock out Cuban veteran Luis Ortiz this weekend in Hollywood, Florida.
Martin, working under the guidance of trainer Manny Robles, says he hopes to reach the heavyweight pinnacle once again after being stopped in two rounds by Anthony Joshua in his maiden world title defence back in 2016.
“This is going to be a great fight. You don’t really see two southpaws too often in the heavyweight division. You’re going to see some really good boxing in this fight,” Martin said.
“You’re going to get a knockout in this fight. We’re not going to go 12 rounds. I know I’m going to knock him out.
“I didn’t get a fair shake in my first run as champion. This is the revenge tour right now. Luis Ortiz is first on my list of these last four fights I want before I retire, which includes two against Anthony Joshua. I want to beat him down twice.
“Me and my trainer Manny Robles have been doing a lot of great work in the gym. People only see what happens in the ring, they don’t see what happens behind closed doors. I have business to take care of on Saturday and we’re ready.
“I’m remaining hopeful about getting another world title fight. I never overlook my opponent or look ahead to another fight though. Ortiz is the only opposition that I see at this moment.”