Price Is Ready To Take Prized Scalp

By Ryan Waugh: David Price is aiming to finish off the career of ‘Big Bad’ John McDermott next Saturday at the Liverpool Olympia and continue his rise up the British heavyweight division.

Price, from Liverpool is, according to his current sparring partner Dereck Chisora, ‘The most improved heavyweight in the country’ as he prepares himself for an intriguing clash with Basildon based McDermott.

If the unbeaten Merseysider, who has an 11-0 ( 9) record, is to defeat ‘Big Bad’ John he will be within touching distance of becoming the first Liverpudlian in history to become the British heavyweight champion.

After routine victories over fellow Brit, Tom Dallas in his last fight and Raphael Butler the fight before, Price is expecting his hardest challenge to date against a guy who has everything to lose.

McDermott, 31, is in the last chance saloon and comes into the fight on the back of four defeats from his last five bouts. Price said: “This will be the toughest fight of my career, I know he is a really good boxer and will be my hardest assignment in my profession to date.

“I have spent a lot of time in the gym and I’ve also been to America to prepare for this fight and have sparred with some solid partners including Danny Price, David Haye and Chisora, who has recently given me my current black eye.”

The Bronze medallist at the 2008 Beijing Olympics is confident of adding to his 100% record and is relishing the chance of becoming a British champion in the near future.

Price said: “If I win, I will be one step away from becoming the first ever British heavyweight champion from Merseyside and this is a pretty amazing stat when you think of some of the boxers whom Liverpool have produced over the years.

“I have improved a lot since my debut fight in 2009 and will go into this contest in the best shape of my career. It was unfortunate that I had to pull out of the November showdown with John but injuries can sometimes not be prevented. However, I am ready to add to my unbeaten record next weekend in front of my home supporters.”

Promoter Frank Maloney is expecting a real fight between two boxers who have a lot to offer. Maloney said: “This is a real heavyweight show, David is the new kid on the block and John has been one of the most unluckiest boxers ever, but this has the ingredients of a classic heavyweight clash.”

January 10, 2012