Darren Barker has vowed to shine in his IBF World Middleweight title defence against Felix Sturm at the Porsche Arena in Stuttgart, live on Sky Sports 1 from 9pm.
The Londoner faces his first World title defence against the German hero, who is attempting to become the first four-time German boxing champion – but Barker said that won’t be happening tomorrow night.
“When preparation has been perfect you look forward to getting in there and that’s where I am right now – I just can’t wait to get in there and do my thing,” said Barker, who weighed in at 11st 5lbs, lighter Sturm who scaled 11st 5lbs 6oz.
“I’ve got a small and close team around me and that’s how I like it. I’ve had a good week here, it’s been enjoyable, we’ve been treated really well and the German fans have been great. I’ve got a lot of fans out here and they were brilliant in the weigh-in, there’s even more coming tomorrow and it’s going to be a great atmosphere.
“The confidence and belief from winning a World title is unreal – I’ve always believed I’m World class, but winning that World title I know that I am World class because I’ve proved it. I am as hungry as I’ve ever been, I’m proud to be a World champion and I want to have a long reign.
“Coming out to Germany to fight one of their great champions is a big statement. I’ve won the title abroad and I’m defending it abroad – it’s a sign of my belief that I will beat him and move towards securing a legacy in this great division.”
Official weigh-in results
IBF Champion: Darren Barker: 158.95 lbs
Challenger: Felix Sturm: 159.39 lbs
