Crolla targets world title in courageous comeback bout with Perez

“It sounds strange but what happened was probably a blessing in disguise as it has allowed me to get into this condition,” continued Crolla. “After the injury we cut down a bit on the long-distance running that I usually do but I feel more explosive for that as it has allowed me to do different bits of training instead.

“I’ve got an unbelievable team around me that have been getting the best out of me during my training camp and I promise I will give 100 per cent against Perez.”

Perez is confident of destroying the Manchester hero’s dreams of a world title on his home patch, with the South American declaring he only has to go about his usual business to triumph, with the Colombian 6/4 to win on points.

“I believe that I don’t need a knock out to win the fight. I just need to get in the ring and start doing my work,” stated Perez.

“He’ll have everyone in the arena rooting for him. He’ll have the full support of the crowd, but none of that bothers me. I know what I have to do to win and there’s no way I’m going back to Colombia without my World title.”

As a passionate Manchester United fan, Crolla is aiming to have a world title belt to showcase during his team’s Premier League season opener against Tottenham at Old Trafford next month (6/1 for title).

“I can’t wait for the new season,” he stated, “and it would be great to go to the first game against Tottenham with a world title belt.”

Perez praised Crolla as the best British lightweight in the sport, and Manchester’s comeback king will hope he can prove those credentials as he makes a sensational return to the ring on home turf.

Betting tip: Crolla wins by KO or TKO @ 13/2