Paul Appleby is adamant that he will not be intimidated when he fights local favourite Martin Lindsay in Belfast.
British champion will use boos as motivation
Paul Appleby insists that a hostile Belfast crowd will not intimidate him when he defends his British featherweight title against Ulsterman Martin Lindsay.
There is sure to be a partisan crowd present when the two fighter square-off, but Appleby is relishing the prospect of fighting in the atmosphere.
The Scottish fighter will receive the biggest purse of his career when he fights Lindsay, but says that he will not be feeling the extra pressure a big-money fight brings when he steps into the ring.
"It doesn't really bother me. I just want to go in and win the fight and then hopefully get more pay-days after that," Appleby said.
"I'm actually looking forward to fighting away. If his crowd boos me and things like this, that'll get me more up for the fight.
"I'm looking forward to his crowd getting on my back a wee bit."
Talent
Appleby's promoter Tommy Gilmour backed up his fighter's statements and also dismissed any suggestions that the judges may lean towards the home fighter if the contest is close.
"I don't believe there's such a thing now as a hometown decision," Gilmour said.
"Never be frightened to take talent on the road. If you're a good fighter, you'll win wherever it is. Some fighters are not good travellers; it doesn't bother this wee boy."
The 21-year-old owns a perfect 13-0 record and believes he has already discovered the strategy that will add another victory to that number.
Although Appleby is aware of Lindsay's strengths, he thinks a quick start can undo his opponent.
"He's a good fighter. He's good technically; he doesn't waste a lot of punches. So I reckon he'll be able to do the 12 rounds.
"But my plan is to hurt him early. If I can hurt him really early, I think the fight will be mine."
