Wednesday 16 March 2016 15:06, UK
IBF heavyweight champion Charles Martin is certain he can knock out Anthony Joshua and dismissed claims that he is facing a '50-50' fight in London.
The 29-year-old American has agreed to make the first defence of his IBF heavyweight belt against Joshua at the O2 Arena on April 9, live on Sky Sports Box Office.
Joshua has blasted his way up the rankings with 15 victories - all inside the distance - but Martin also boasts an unbeaten record and has halted 21 of his 23 opponents.
I'm going to say I know I can touch his chin, I know I can test it, I know I can knock him out. That's the confidence that I walk this earth with.
Asked whether he thinks he can test Joshua's chin, Martin told Sky Sports: "The word 'think' is being unsure, like I think I can do something.
"I'm going to say I know I can touch his chin, I know I can test it, I know I can knock him out. That's the confidence that I walk this earth with.
"This is my profession, this is my livelihood, this is how I feed my kids. When I step into the ring, I'm going to go to work and do what I do best.
"He's going to feel my presence right away."
Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn has admitted his fighter is taking a risk by facing Martin at this stage of his career and described the 26-year-old's first world title shot as a 50-50 fight.
But Martin swiftly dismissed these odds and vowed to prove that he is the top fighter in the division.
"50-50 fight? No, I'm the best heavyweight ever. I'm going to be the best and I am the best. The only thing holding me back is the time to prove it.
"That's the only thing that's holding me back from that label.
"Prince Charles Martin is the future."
In the weeks before the fight announcement, Martin used social media to suggest that Joshua was scared of fighting him, but insists he was simply creating interest in the fight.
"For a world title, you shouldn't have no fear," he said. "You shouldn't second think or second guess yourself getting a world title shot. I know I wouldn't. I was looking forward to doing it.
"I just work my magic, man. You say the right things and you make things happen. I just wanted to make the fight. I don't care if he's scared - or if he's not scared."
The prospect of fighting in Joshua's hometown does not faze 'Prince Charles' Martin, who has even suggested he wants to meet his Royal namesake.
"Anywhere I go, I make it my home," he said. "The people will love me out here, I'm pretty sure of it, because of my personality and stuff like that. I'm an easy going guy and I'm myself. I don't try to put on and be somebody that I'm not. I'm pretty sure the people will see that."
"That would be a real honour if I could actually meet Prince Charles," he added.
