Cleverly targets “best career win” over Fonfara in Chicago clash

“Suddenly I was presented with this fantastic opportunity to come to America and showcase in a big fight against Fonfara.

“So ultimately, I just feel fighting here in America on this big stage, I just feel it was too much of a big opportunity to turn away.

“I declined the world title fight and I believe this is a bigger fight. It’s probably a more difficult fight but it’s on a bigger platform. It’s in the States and I like fighting here, so let’s do it.”

Although, the Welshman knows exactly what he’s up against on American soil, as he prepares to face a fighter that could be a huge threat in front of what will be his home support, making him the odds-on 1/2 favourite.

“This will be my toughest fight I think, apart from Sergey Kovalev,” continued the Caerphilly-born bruiser.

“I think Andrzej Fonfara is probably going to be the toughest. You know, his resume, his recent performances, he’s looked good. So, yes, this is my toughest fight.

“But I’ve prepared well for this fight, I’m looking forward to it. I just think the winner of this fight, it’s the gateway to the elite fights with Stevenson and Kovalev. This is the kind of eliminator for those fights.

“It’s a tough fight but, provided I get through this, then I’m in that elite mix.

“This is my third time in the States, my third fight in the States. I fought in Las Vegas a few years ago and then in LA a few years later, where I defended my world title. Each occasion has been a fantastic experience.

“I’ve loved every moment of it and I’m back and I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be a great fight, this one. I want to be world champion again. Fonfara, he’s in my way.

“I don’t think there’s many weaknesses with Andrzej but what I can capitalize on I believe is my movement, my speed and my punch variation. I believe the variety will give Fonfara problems and I believe I can pull this off.”

Victory for Cleverly would represent a further revival in his career, having suffered defeats to dominant Russian Kovalev and fellow Brit Tony Bellew in the last two years, but he faces a tough task against a solid Fonfara in an intimidating UIC Pavilion.

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Betting tip: Nathan Cleverly beats Andrzej Fonfara @ 13/8