Holyfield: I am 'The Real Deal'

Holyfield: Undaunted by the size of his challenge

It's a testimony to good living and to not quitting, so my aim is to go and win this fight for all the 40-somethings out there and prove that it's not really fair to put people all in the same pot based purely on their age.

Evander Holyfield
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Evander Holyfield insists he can roll back the years and become the oldest heavyweight champion against Nikolai Valuev on Saturday night.

The four-time world heavyweight title champion, 46, takes on the towering Russian WBA title holder in Zurich at the weekend giving away 11 years, 24 centimetres and some 100 pounds (45 kilos) to his opponent.

But despite the clear physical disadvantages, and the fact Holyfield has lost four of his last eight bouts, the veteran is determined to prove he can still live up to his nickname and prove he is 'The Real Deal'.

Conviction

"I honestly do not think that size really matters," Holyfield said. "It is about how each individual fights. I know I have more experience so I'm just looking forward to showing my talents in the ring.

"I'm happy to talk about my age, and let people look at me and say 'wow, he looks as good as any of the younger fighters'.

"It's a testimony to good living and to not quitting, so my aim is to go and win this fight for all the 40-somethings out there and prove that it's not really fair to put people all in the same pot based purely on their age."

The Valuev camp are confident about their chances as well though and the world's largest and heaviest ever champion is said to be in top shape as he goes in search of the 50th win of his career.

"Nikolai has been working constantly on his technique," said coach Alexander Zimin. "He's become stronger, he's hitting faster and faster and he's improving with every day.

"I'm sure Holyfield's team are going to be waiting for the first mistake from Nikolai, but there isn't going to be one."