Maksim Vlasov knows he is coming up against a stronger boxer when he faces Joe Smith Jr. at the weekend.
The 34-year-old Russian used to fight at cruiserweight but has now adjusted to life in the light heavyweight division, having fought his last four bouts at 175lbs.
He faces Smith Jr. on February 13 at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas as he attempts to land his first world title, the WBO light heavyweight.
Speaking to BoxingScene.com, Vlasov acknowledged his opponent’s heavy hands.
“Joe Smith is very strong, he’s the much bigger puncher,” Vlasov said.
“He’s a good fighter, he can punch very hard and is good at breaking his opponents down. He’s very physical.
“He is the bigger puncher; I am the better boxer. I know what I have to do in this fight — and I will win this fight.”
Vlasov explained his planned tactics to counteract his rival’s superior power.
“I know he will try to make this a fight,” Vlasov said.
“I prefer to box. I know I can’t just stand in front of him and try to match his punching power. I know he’s physically stronger than me. I plan to let him know that I am the much better boxer than him.
“We will see what happens but I am confident this fight will show what I can do in the ring at this level.”