Fighting words from Herman’s challenger

BOXING: Randall Rayment has threatened to test the mettle of Toowoomba’s Herman Ene-Purcell leading into their heavyweight showdown at Rumours International on July 22.

“I will take him into the deep water and I do think I’ll stop him,” Rayment said.

“I think it’s inevitable, someone is going to finish the fight on the canvas.

“We’re going to stand in front of each other and see what happens.

“In theory I should use my reach and work it to my advantage but the reality is it’s going to be a slug-fest and I’m going to punch on with him.”

Rayment has a career record of six wins and three losses from nine bouts including four wins in succession.

He’s never been stopped. Two of his losses have come at the hands of the undefeated pair Paul Gallen and Jai Opetaia.

However Rayment thinks Ene-Purcell will be the biggest puncher he’s faced.

“He’s a heavy puncher and I’m not taking him lightly,” Rayment said.

“I know he has the ability to knock me out, but I like my chances.

“His style suits me — he walks forward.

“I’m on a roll and I’m going out there to stop him.”

Ene-Purcell is on the back up after his creditable nine round loss at the hands of OPBF champion Kyotara Fujimoto in Tokyo in May.

“I don’t disagree with Randall’s comments,” Ene-Purcell said.

“This fight will be a slug-fest, we’re evenly matched and I do believe it will come down to who wants it the most and who’s willing to dig the deepest.

“I haven’t stopped training since the Japan fight in May so I’ll be in great condition come July 22.

“I know I need to be because Randall will ensure it’s a fast-paced bout.”