Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
FUJIMOTO IS PUTTING DUBOIS ON RED ALERT
KYOTARO FUJIMOTO claims Daniel Dubois is underestimating him ahead of their heavyweight showdown at London’s Copper Box Arena.
The colourful Japanese fighter says Dubois and his promoter Frank Warren picked him because they think he will be “an easy win” for the unbeaten Londoner.
Fujimoto feels they have dropped a clanger and he intends to shock them and the boxing world tomorrow night. “They think they’re going to win of course,” said Fujimoto (left), ranked 13 by the WBA.
“They think they’re bringing me over as an easy win, but that’s not the case. I’m ready to take on the world.”
Fujimoto, 33, is a former K-1 kickboxing world champion and reckons he has the power to knock Dubois out.
He has won 18 of his 23 kickboxing bouts before turning to boxing in 2011.
The 6ft red-haired fighter loves wearing garish suits with a gold coat and has had his national flag etched on the back of his head.
Fujimoto has 13 stoppages from his 21 wins and said: “Daniel Dubois, I’m going to knock you out.
“Daniel is a good fighter. He is big and strong, but I am very experienced and I love to fight. I am ready to perform over 12 hard rounds.”
Fujimoto is determined to grab this chance to transform his career and claims he would want Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury or Deontay Wilder next if he pulls off a shock win.
He insists he can stun Dubois, who has won all 13 of his pro bouts, and is enjoying a 16-fight winning run.
“Joshua, Wilder, Fury – these are the best fighters in the world and to fight any world champion would be amazing,” he added.
“This is my big chance to show what I’m made of. I’m going to do my best to make this my Christmas present.
“If I win, it’s going to change my life. I am very proud to be Japanese and I will win for my country.”