Luke Campbell says he can't afford to lose to Gary Sykes
Thursday 24 March 2016 20:45, UK
Luke Campbell admits he can't afford to lose again on his return to the ring.
The Olympic gold medalist takes on Gary Sykes, live on Sky Sports, just over three months after suffering his first professional defeat.
Campbell was floored in the fifth round, before being out-pointed by the tough Yvan Mendy and has since taken on Jorge Rubio as his full-time trainer.
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It has meant he has "prepared differently mentally and physically" ahead of his showdown with Sykes in Sheffield but admits he has to return to winning ways.
"I've pushed myself outside my comfort zone," Campbell told Sky Sports.
It's a must-win fight. I train to win every one of them but it's definitely must-win.
"I respect Gary. I've known him a lot of years and I'm 100 per cent prepared for what he brings to the table. On Saturday night, you're all going to see what I'm capable of.
"It's a must-win fight. I train to win every one of them but it's definitely must-win.
"I'm confident, feeling good and everything's gone as it should've gone. I can say that I'm stepping in the ring 100 per cent."
Campbell's decision to change trainers has meant him spending more time away from his family in Hull.
The lightweight has done his first full camp out in Miami and the man behind it all, Rubio, has told the British boxing public to see a new, improved fighter.
"He did a good training camp and I hope everything is coming good on Saturday night," Rubio said. "He sparred good opponents and I think everything is ready for Saturday.
"He was training with me for two weeks before but now it was a large training camp and I hope he's ready. He carries more skill now to be better in the fight."
