Eric Hunter ready to shine against IBF champion Lee Selby
Wednesday 16 March 2016 15:41, UK
Eric Hunter has questioned Lee Selby's record and expects to rip away the Welshman's IBF featherweight title in London.
The American will challenge Selby for his IBF belt on the undercard of Anthony Joshua v Charles Martin, live on Sky Sports Box Office, at the O2 Arena on April 9.
Both fighters have exchanged heated words in the build-up, with Hunter claiming his opponent is 'mentally weak', while Selby has promised to produce a 'spiteful' performance in front of a large watching audience.
But the Philadelphia man is unimpressed with the champion's slick defensive skills, branding him a 'runner' and insists Selby is yet to be truly tested in his 23-fight career.
"He's a runner, we know he's a runner, he boxes and runs away," Hunter told Sky Sports.
"He's not really fought anyone yet. He fought (former IBF champion) Evgeny Gradovich, who has not really been the same since he fought Billy Dib. He just walked forward with his hands up."
I don't need to win a war of words, I'm going to show what I can do on the night.
Asked about the pair's recent verbal exchanges, Hunter said: "I don't need to win a war of words, I'm going to show what I can do on the night."
Hunter is preparing for his first fight outside the United States, but insists he welcomes the opportunity to share the ring with Selby in front of a sold-out 17,000 attendance.
"I love the London fans, I'm looking forward to coming over there and showing them what I can do," he said.
"I'm excited about fighting in front of all those people, it gives me the chance to show off my skills.
"They are going to see a new IBF champion."
Joshua's first world title shot against the IBF's heavyweight title holder Martin is at the top of a bumper London bill and Hunter admits he has kept a close eye on the big-hitting British challenger.
Asked about Joshua, Hunter said: "He's my favourite heavyweight fighter. We follow each other on Instagram and he's going about things the right way. Not talking rubbish, just taking care of things.
"Yes, sure he can become a world champion."
