SWINDON’S Luke ‘The Duke’ Watkins believes he is going to knock Jordan Thompson out after the pair were announced to be fighting for the IBF European title in Cardiff next month.
Watkins (16-2) and unbeaten prospect Thompson (14-0) will feature on the undercard of the Matchroom Boxing schedule on Saturday, April 22 – a bill which is topped by Welshman, Joe Cordina in his bid to unify the world super-featherweight division, with live coverage shown on streaming service DAZN.
After the Swindon cruiserweight comfortably dispatched Iain Martell in Grays last year, Watkins became the English champion in his natural class and is eyeing the next belt up as he continues his journey back towards a world-title fight.
“This is the biggest fight of my career. It would be the biggest platform, and it’s a European title, so it’s one step down from a world title,” said Watkins, who has only suffered two defeats so far in his 18-bout professional career.
One was to British juggernaut, Lawrence Okolie in a fight for the Commonwealth cruiserweight and WBA continental cruiser titles, while the other was a controversial split decision against Isaac Chamberlain in 2018.
“In my heart, I know I won that fight against Isaac. I still have total belief in myself. Why would I even participate if I didn’t? It would make no sense,” said the 33-year-old.
“I have so much experience now. That’s what losing and bouncing back gives you, you’re bringing more experience to the table.”
When the fight was announced, Watkins’ upcoming opponent said the Swindon man: “is tough, but I’m a level above. He’ll have to be at his very best to even compete with me.”
‘The Duke’ said that he thought Thompson genuinely believed his words, but that the Mancunian’s easier bout history means Watkins is the bigger threat.
Watkins said: “He hasn’t fought winners, he’s fought one decent guy.
“If you look at my resume and the compare the individuals we’ve fought, I’ve got a better resume. No ifs and buts, regardless of the two losses, I have a much better resume.
“I’m the more experienced fighter. I know what I know about myself. He’s still fighting on belief.”
In terms of a prediction for the late-April fight, Watkins did not mince his words.
He said: “I believe I’m getting him out of there! That is what is going to happen. I will find the kinks in his chainmail and break them.”
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