Consecutive losses to Devin Haney hasn't shaken George Kambosos Jr.'s confidence.
Ahead of his first fight of 2023, Kambosos is preparing for Maxi Hughes, who will provide the opposition on July 22 in a 12-round IBF world title eliminator in the U.S.
Kambosos lost back-to-back fights by unanimous decision to Haney in 2022, both coming on home soil within a four-month span. The first defeat cost Kambosos the three lightweight titles he had won from Teofimo Lopez the year previous, with Haney also claiming the WBC belt in the process. Kambosos failed to take the titles from Haney in the rematch, leaving the Australian to go in a different direction.
Now, Kambosos is set to square off against 33-year-old Brit Hughes, who holds the IBO title and has reeled off seven straight victories.
While Hughes looks to provide a tough test for the 30-year-old Aussie, Kambosos isn't too impressed with Hughes' previous opposition. He even made a bold prediction for how the fight will play out on July 22.
“Since the Devin Haney fights, I’ve gotten sharper. I’ve become a better boxer. I’m better on my feet. I’m better all around," Kambosos said.
"I’ve been able to sit back and add more artillery to the game. I’ve been able to watch so much more footage from different fights. I’m a better fighter.
“I know that Maxi Hughes is coming off a seven-fight win streak against guys that I’ve never really heard of. It’s okay. Whatever he’s coming with, that’s no problem. I’m coming in with what I’m coming in with. Just look at my last three fights. Don’t worry about the wins and losses. Just look at the names. Even prior to that. Look at my last five fights.”
“I’m going to make an emphatic statement. I’m going to show that I’m back. I’m going to show that I’ve become a better fighter. I’m going to knock out Maxi Hughes.”