Enzo - Joe's an inspiration

Maccarinelli: Coming out of Calzaghe's shadows

Haye's the one who has under-estimated me and he'll find out on Saturday night that he's not as good as I am.

Enzo Maccarinelli
Quotes of the week

Also see

• Sky Sports experts
• World champions
• On Sky TV
• Messageboards

Enzo Maccarinelli is ready to step out of Joe Calzaghe's shadow and defeat David Haye in this weekend's cruiserweight showdown.

The 27-year-old has often been forced to play second fiddle to the super-middleweight champion who fights out of the same gym in Cwmcarn.

However, he has still leant on his good friend for advice ahead of the biggest fight of his career, as he bids to add the WBC and WBA belts to the WBO title he already has in his possession.

Inspiration

"I've been in the shadow of Joe but I always knew that the day would come when I would be able to step out of it and beat the best to become the best," he said.

"Joe has been an inspiration for me over the years and it is great to hear him cheering me on from ringside.

"We are always sparring in the gym and working on ways to adapt."

Haye stoked up the rivalry between the two British boxers on Tuesday when he claimed his opponent would pay for underestimating him.

However, Maccarinelli is adamant that is not the case after he learnt a painful lesson way back in just his fourth professional fight against Lee Swaby.

Learning experience

That shock stoppage defeat to the Lincoln southpaw is the only blip on his professional record and a harsh reminder not to take anything, or anyone, for granted.

"In one way I'm thankful that Lee Swaby beat me because it taught me a lesson never to under-estimate anybody, and go in there believing I could knock people out," he added.

"I've learned from all that and I'm fit and excited and ready. I've never been more motivated for a fight.

"Haye's the one who has under-estimated me and he'll find out on Saturday night that he's not as good as I am."