By Phil D.
World Boxing News
August 7, 2014
IBF Welterweight champion Shawn Porter is confident that he has everything in place for another successful defense when he faces Kell Brook on August 16 in Carson, California.
The 26-year-old from Akron, Ohio, goes into the bout with mandatory challenger Brook as the favourite to retain his coveted red belt, and despite some believing the unbeaten Brit poses a threat, Porter sees nothing to fear.
"I'm not concerned about Kell Brook," stated Porter.
"Earlier, people were asking me about his power, and I don't have much to say about that other than that I haven't seen anything on film that makes him different from anybody else.
"I believe that Brook will feel the added pressure in this being his first title fight. I handled it great. I welcomed it and loved it going into my first title fight. I'm not sure if he has the same personality to handle the extra pressure. I do know there will be a big crown out there and I can't wait. The West Coast is hot and the crown gets louyd. I'm ready.
"I don't know if he is the toughest opponent I've faced yet. His record (32-0) would say that he is, but if you take a look at the caliber of fighters that I've fought before him, I think the other guys are more challenging fighters, especially Devon Alexander, who has an awkward and complicated style. Not to call Kell Brook plain, but he has a more up-and-down style that will be easier to deal with."
Porter is one of three standout candidates to be considered for Floyd Mayweather's spring 2015 PPV event alongside Amir Khan and Danny Garcia but needs a stellar performance against Brook to remain in the running.
