Peterson unafraid of 'super strong' Matthysse
This Saturday tough American Lamont Peterson (31-1-1) takes on hard hitting Argentine Lucas Matthysse (33-2) at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey live on Sky Sports HD1.
In what could potentially be a Fight of the Year candidate, both men have points to prove and scores to settle, not necessarily with each other. It's one of the pure matchups that could be made in boxing. It matches the No 2 and 3 light welterweights in the world (unified titlist Danny Garcia is No 1 and will probably fight the winner on Sept 7) Peterson-Matthysse is also a great style match. Peterson is an excellent boxer who isn't afraid to rumble. Matthysse is a brawler and a knockout artist who looks to decapitate opponents. Both have been involved in fan-friendly fights.
Although both men hold titles, Peterson has the IBF title and Matthysse has the WBA interim title - this fight is being contested at 141 lbs with no title at stake.
Since Peterson defeated Amir Khan for the WBA and IBF light welterweight titles in his hometown of Washington in December 2011, Peterson became something of a troubling figure. He tested positive for synthetic testosterone prior to his scheduled rematch with Khan. Although he remained the IBF titlist he was stripped of the WBA belt. His team pleaded a medical defence. While Matthysse's stock rose. After debateable split decision defeats in the backyards of world level opponents, Zab Judah in 2010 and Devon Alexander the following year, Lucas has strung together five victories, all inside the distance. Most recently knocking out Mike Dallas Jr in a round. The Argentine's power is revealed in his 31 KO's ledger.
Regarding Matthysse's power Peterson said "You know your going to get hit during a fight. I don't worry about anyone's punching power until I get hit."
Matthysse, however believes he is fully prepared for this fight, "It's gonna be a real hard fight but I feel confident that I'll win. I've been sparring with a bunch of guys that showed up here to help me and I feel super strong."
In the co-feature fight, Devon Alexander (24-1) defends his IBF welterweight title against Lee Purdy (20-3-1).
Also Britain's Olympic bronze medalist Anthony Ogogo and Amir Khan's younger brother Haroon are set to make their professional debuts on US soil. Ogogo meets Edgar Perez and Khan takes on Vincente Medellin.