Sprott ready to pose problems on Sky Sports Box Office showdown
Monday 10 November 2014 15:04, UK
Michael Sprott is promising to be Anthony Joshua's toughest test so far.
The former British and Commonwealth heavyweight champion will take on the Olympic gold medalists on Cleverly v Bellew II, live on Sky Sports Box Office on November 22.
I've never avoided a challenge so when I got this offer I just thought I've got to give it a go.
Sprott is Joshua's 10th opponent since turning professional and although he is not claiming he will beat him, the 39-year-old from Reading is going to give him trouble.
"I have never ducked anyone," he told Ringside. "I've never avoided a challenge so when I got this offer I just thought I've got to give it a go.
"I don't want to say too much but you will see on the night. It's not going to be easy, it is going to be tough, not a walk in the park - he is a hungry individual.
"He's a big puncher, he's got everything going for him. He's 25, I'm 39, so I know I am in for a hard time. But I am preparing properly to spring a surprise and make it difficult for him."
Joshua has already blown away a former Sprott opponent in the shape of Matt Skelton.
Sprott fought him three times between 2007 and 2010, losing two but finishing the trilogy by beating him in Prizefighter four years ago.
And although he made light work of Skelton, stopping him in two rounds in July, Joshua is expecting a real test in the Echo Arena in Liverpool.
"Michael has been in with the likes of Audley Harrison and Danny Williams and he won Prizefighter only a few months ago when I was on the same card," he said.
"Look at his sparring, his experience, he's been around for a long time, so he should pose some threats.
"He's a dangerous fighter so I have got respect for him and I know I have to be well prepared."
Watch Joshua v Sprott live and exclusive as part of Cleverly v Bellew II, on Sky Sports Box Office on November 22, with Groves, DeGale, Quigg and more, also on. Go to skysports.com/cleverlybellew to book.
