Devon Alexander will not be underestimating Randall Bailey when he takes on the IBF welterweight champion in Las Vegas on September 8.
Alexander looking to become a two-weight champion on Saturday week
Devon Alexander will not be underestimating Randall Bailey when he takes on the IBF welterweight champion in Las Vegas on September 8.
Bailey was a shock winner of the strap when he knocked out Mike Jones in the 11th round of their June clash with the veteran well behind on the scorecards.
The 37-year-old has always carried one-punch power but with a 43-7 record he had previously fallen short at the highest level.
But while Alexander is heavily favoured by the bookmakers the 25-year-old is not taking victory for granted.
"We know Bailey's style and what he brings to the table," said the former WBC and IBF light-welterweight champion. "If he thinks I am underestimating him, he hasn't been paying attention to the interviews.
"I never take any fighter lightly; I learned that in the amateurs. A man can beat anybody on a given night.
"This is going to be a tough fight. Anybody who has that kind of power is dangerous. I know I have to be prepared (for Bailey's right hand), but I'm not concerned about it.
"I do what I have to do. I just want to take control from the opening bell until the end."
Awesome
Alexander is rebuilding at welterweight after losing his unbeaten record in a unification fight against Timothy Bradley over 18 months ago.
A disputed victory over Lucas Matthysse was followed by a dominant display against Marcos Maidana, and the American says he is feeling comfortable at the higher weight.
"I love fighting at 147. It's awesome. I feel so much stronger and have so much more energy," he added. "I don't have to struggle as much and I don't have to worry about draining myself.
"I outgrew the 140-pound weight class. You definitely haven't seen the best of me at 147. There are a lot of action-packed opponents at 147. It's going to be interesting."
As a southpaw Alexander has an instant advantage against many opponents but Bailey is vastly experienced against left-handers and is confident of causing another upset.
"My trainer, John David Jackson, was one of the best defensive southpaws in the game and he's got me slippin' and slidin' in the ring like I never have before," he said. "I've fought a rack of southpaws so it shouldn't be a problem.
"I'm trying to tell you, this (guy) is perfect for me. I don't know what they're thinking in St. Louis, but it isn't going to be easy like they think."
Power
Bailey is often criticized for looking to throw big bombs instead of working his way into a fight, and he recognizes the need to look busier.
"I know I have to throw more punches and definitely be busier," he added. "He's going to require that. Alexander isn't nearly as tall as Jones, a big guy who uses his height well.
"l have what I have, the punching power to catch guys, and Jones left the door open for me. I knew I was losing the whole fight. My corner was cussing me out between every round to get busy, but I got the job done.
"No one gave me a chance against Jones and no one is giving me a chance again, but I'm prepared and I've done my homework. Devon is in for a rude awakening."
The fight will be of particular interest to British fight fans, with the winner likely to defend the title next against Kell Brook - provided 'The Special One' gets past Hector Saldivia on October 20.
