MATHIEU Germain is well aware of all the “what’s next” talk for Dalton Smith. The quietly confident Canadian is ready to slide into Sheffield and upset the best-laid world title plans by using his skills and strategy to defeat the local man.
Speaking at the final pre-fight press conference, Germain said he had been waiting for a big fight phone call his entire boxing life. He was already in shape and now sees everything coming together with perfect timing.
“I think Dalton is a real professional fighter but he’s going to still be in his head,” said Germain when asked whether he can pile the pressure on Smith and take advantage of possible future fight distractions.
“Everybody here talks about the fight after but I’m here to fight. I’m here for the W but I think he’s a true professional and he’s going to try to stay focused on me. He’s a good fighter, he does everything well.
“That’s why I think I have something to beat him because I’m a smart fighter and that’s it. I know that he’s a true champion, a true fighter, a good professional fighter, very good. But that’s why I do boxing, to fight against good fighters.”
Germain has viewed some fight footage across Smith’s previous 17 fights. He has devised a plan of action, but, like most cagey operators, is not giving a whole lot of information away at this stage.
“Of course, if in my head my plan was not good, I’m going to talk to my coach before that. I truly think that we have something and we’re going to do it.”
And one final prediction ahead of the 12-round main event in Sheffield’s Canon Medical Arena for Smith’s WBC Silver super-lightweight strap?
“The W, that’s it,” concluded Germain.
