RONALD “The American Dream” Johnson of the United States Thursday, June 6, said he will go for a win as he even challenged Saul “The Phoenix Assassin” Farah of Bolivia to be ready when they clash against each other for the vacant Global Boxing Organization (GBO) world heavyweight title on June 15 at The Enderun Tent, Azuela Cove in Lanang, Davao City.
“I’m definitely coming for the win. That’s the only thing I know. I am very confident but I am not sure if I have the upperhand or not,” Johnson said of their showdown, dubbed as “Thrilla in Davao”.
To his opponent, he said, “Saul, you know, just come ready to fight. I am super respectful and humble now but when the bell rings, I turn to a whole new man (laughs)... King Kong breaks loose in Davao,” Johnson said during Davao Sportswriters Association (DSA) Forum at The Annex of SM City Davao Thursday.
The 33-year-old Johnson, born in Cleveland, Ohio, totes a 15-win, one-loss, zero-draw record. He won the World Boxing Council United States (USNBC) light heavyweight title in 2009 after beating Billy Bailey.
He said Farah (69W-23L-3D, 60KO) will be the toughest guy he will ever fight.
Johnson added, “He is a great competitior. He has a great resume. Great night of fireworks. I expect to definitely come and give it my all and put on a show for the people here in the Philippines.”
He cited his defense and hand speed as advantage over reigning Bolivian heavyweight champion Farah.
Red Boxing International, Inc. chairman Rey Rodis, for his part, said the upcoming fight is considered the big bang of the GBO caravan.
He said, “This is the first time GBO is holding a heavyweight world championship title fight in Davao.”