New York is beginning to feel the heat of the fight to be held this weekend at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona. On Wednesday, the final press conference was held for the defense of the Light Heavyweight Champion of the World Boxing Association (WBA), Dmitry Bivol, who is being challenged by Joe Smith Jr. Both spoke to the press about what they expect from their upcoming confrontation.

The event featured all the fighters that will be on the billboard on Saturday, but all the attention was focused on the Russian champion and his American challenger. Bivol, one of the most well rounded fighters in the division, did not issue any big statements but made it clear that he will do his talking in the ring.

“I do not want to talk much, I do not know as many jokes as Eddie Hearn. I’m ready to fight and I hope Joe too. We are going to make a great fight,” said the WBA king.

Smith knows that he does not have an easy challenge ahead, but he is only one step away from achieving what he has dreamed throughout his life, which is a world title: “This is a great opportunity. I have put everything I have in this training camp. This is what every fighter has dreamed of, a world title. This is my chance.”

With the press conference is over, Bivol and Smith Jr. will have to complete the weigh-in ceremony next Friday. Both seem in great condition to make the 175 pound limit. One that step is fulfilled they will then be enabled to fight for the black belt and gold title the next day.

Bivol has 15 wins, no losses, and 11 knockouts, while Smith has a balance of 24 wins, 2 losses, and 20 knockouts.