LIAM Cameron isn’t the type of fighter who likes to talk a lot. Now firmly reestablished in the second phase of a career that has passed through occasional highs and some incredible lows, being centre stage against an opponent like Ben Whittaker has required more top table chatter than usual for the laconic Yorkshireman.
From the age of nine (or maybe eight, he couldn’t quite remember) when Cameron bought his first copy of Boxing News, he’s dreamed of being involved on a stage like this. A main event grudge match against a much-celebrated future star of boxing, in a capacity venue, live on Sky Sports. Promoter Ben Shalom reckons viewing figures could slide off the charts. Cameron has already played his part in helping the occasion reach that point.
“There’s no hard feelings on anything I’ve said or done. Let the games begin in the ring now,” he said at the press conference this afternoon.
“Obviously, Ben’s got his supporters, but I’ve got way more supporters who want me to do the job. I’ve won the lottery. It’s been mad, I’m just buzzing. I’m getting the fight over 10 rounds.”
The latter point has been described as a “one-nil win” given all of the huff and puff around the number of rounds. Cameron grinned that promoter Shalom had paid him a fortune to rectify the supposed contractual oversight that originally had it down as a 12-rounder when Boxxer wanted a 10.
“Everyone’s saying how better Ben’s going to be. When I boxed Ben, I had a year in the ring. Now, is it 16 months? I’ve had an extra six months in the gym. I haven’t been on holiday to Dubai and stuff. I’ve been in that gym.
“I’ve given myself the best opportunity. I’ve grabbed every opportunity I have with both hands. I’ve made the most of what I can get. That’s where I am.”
Having built the former Olympian up to be a mental monster before their first meeting in Riyadh, Liam was able to remain motivated and switched on – almost fearful to a degree. He will have to repeat that ritual ahead of the rematch.
“I’ll put myself in a frame of mind, a mental state, where I’ll be scared. I’ll be that scared dog in that change room. That brings the best out of me. I’m confident now, but I want to get into that scared feeling,” said Cameron.
