Briton Josh Kelly says we will see a “different version” of him when he makes the first defence of his IBF light-middleweight title against Caoimhin Agyarko on Saturday.
Kelly rebuilt from his sole career loss in 2021 to beat Bakhram Murtazaliev and claim the title in January, winning the belt in his 20th professional bout.
Belfast’s Agyarko has also overcome adversity to earn a seat at world title level, having been cut by promoter Matchroom after what was then a career-best win over Troy Williamson in 2023.
Both men will walk to the ring in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s heavyweight return against Kristian Prenga fully aware of how tough it has been to get to this stage.
“Being a world champion does something to you,” Kelly said at Thursday’s final news conference.
“I thought it was a myth beforehand but how I’m going about my work in the gym is just different. It’s a different version of me.
“When I have that confidence, it’s a hard night for anyone: ‘Boots’ [Jaron Ennis], [Sebastian] Fundora – any of them.
“I’m going to come in on Saturday, show there’s levels to this game and put on a show.”
