Scott Quigg vows to 'devastate' Kiko Martinez in July bout
Tuesday 16 June 2015 06:53, UK
Scott Quigg plans to produce a devastating performance in his WBA world super bantamweight title defence against Kiko Martinez next month.
Quigg defends his title against former IBF champion Martinez at the Manchester Arena on July 18, 10 months after the 29-year-old Spaniard lost his crown to Carl Frampton on a unanimous decision.
Bury champion Quigg accepts the contest will be the most difficult of his reign so far, but predicts his fifth defence will be his best yet.
“It’s a fight that we want to go out and make a real statement,” said Quigg. “I’m confident that I can go out there and do a number on him. We’ve been preparing for what we expect Kiko to bring – we aren’t leaving anything to chance.
“Training has been going really well. I’m enjoying camp and the place I’m in at the moment is the best I’ve been in – both physically and mentally.
“Kiko’s experience, knowledge and ability has improved dramatically over the years. He’s become a much more intelligent fighter since winning a World title – Kiko knows how and when to apply educated pressure rather than a fight like a headless chicken.
“I’m expecting him to come out all guns blazing from the off – he will get a massive shock when I return fire. Kiko doesn’t like being backed up and that’s something I’m confident I can do throughout.”
Quigg, who is unbeaten in 30 fights, could pursue a unification bout against Frampton if he defeats Martinez.
Frampton took the IBF title from Martinez in September and defends it for the second time on the same night in Texas against little-known Mexican Alejandro Gonzalez Jr.
Quigg has vowed to outdo ‘The Jackal’ against the Spaniard and believes a big win will bring the much-craved fight between the pair.
“Frampton’s team had to make that move to go over to America because he has run out of options over here other than face me,” said Quigg. “I do have renewed confidence that after the July 18 after I’ve dealt with Kiko, we can sit down and get this fight finally done.
“People have criticised the opponents I’ve faced over the years – but no disrespect to the guy Frampton is fighting but we had never heard of him.
“I’m training hard and the support has been fantastic from my fans. I can assure them that on July 18 they will get the performance and statement they deserve. To those that criticise me – I’m looking forward to silencing you.”
