Tuesday 19 December 2017 11:44, UK
Mikey Garcia is targeting a world title in a fourth weight division as he wants to replace Floyd Mayweather as the "biggest star in boxing".
The Californian will challenge Sergey Lipinets for the IBF super-lightweight title in San Antonio on February 2, continuing his rise up the divisions after taking the WBC lightweight belt with an explosive win over Dejan Zlaticanin in January.
Mayweather claimed world titles in five weight divisions during his undefeated 50-fight career and Garcia is keen to emulate the achievements of the 40-year-old, who returned to retirement after his stoppage win over UFC star Conor McGregor in August.
"I know that I have the possibility to be the biggest star in boxing like a Floyd Mayweather, and I think I'm on track to accomplish that," said Garcia.
"I don't see a lot of guys in the sport with the resume of accomplishments that I have. I'm going to continue take on the best and beat my opponents convincingly."
Lipinets is yet to suffer a defeat in 13 fights, winning 10 by knockout, and Garcia is fully aware of the threat posed by the Russian.
"A world champion like Sergey Lipinets is more exciting an opponent for me than an easy title defence," said Garcia. "I wanted a challenge and this man presents that. He's a bigger man naturally. He's going to be very hungry and motivated. He knows a victory over me launches his career to the top. That's going to make this an interesting fight.
"It's been a great return to boxing since my layoff. When I came back, I wanted to move fast and take on big challenges. That's what we've been doing so far. I want to take on any challenges that people think I can't achieve.
"I think slowly we're proving to everyone that I'm better than ever and I'm going to keep taking on the kinds of fights that will cement my legacy."
