Gavin McDonnell says Rey Vargas could receive a painful shock in WBC super-bantamweight fight
Thursday 23 February 2017 18:18, UK
Gavin McDonnell says Rey Vargas could receive a painful shock as he attempts to win the WBC super-bantamweight belt with a memorable upset victory.
The 30-year-old Doncaster man is a betting underdog for this Saturday's world title fight against Vargas at Hull Ice Arena, live on Sky Sports.
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His Mexican opponent holds a 28-fight unbeaten record, with 22 knockouts, and will be joined by the Hall of Fame trainer Ignacio 'Nacho' Beristain.
But McDonnell insists other opponents have paid the price for taking him lightly and plans to upset the odds once again this weekend.
"People and fighters say to me, you look easy, you don't hit hard, and then they get in and have a bit of a shock," McDonnell told Sky Sports.
"I have proven that over time and this Saturday, if Rey Vargas hasn't prepared, or underestimates me in the slightest, I'm going to make him pay."
Vargas reacted angrily after being made to travel for his meeting with McDonnell, who believes home advantage could prove crucial when the first bell rings.
"We're fetching a load of support over and I can't thank my fans enough, they have really come out this time," said McDonnell, who returns to the scene of his British title victory over Leigh Wood.
"Hull Ice Arena, the atmosphere is unbelievable, and I've had two cracking nights there. I plan on making it three."
Watch Gavin McDonnell vs Rey Vargas from the Hull Ice Arena, live from 8pm, Saturday, on Sky Sports 2.
