The big bout in Bendigo has finally arrived.
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Anthony Mundine and Michael Zerafa are going head-to-head on Saturday at the Bendigo Stadium to fight for the WBA middleweight Oceania title.
In addition to the belt, there's plenty on the line for both fighters.
The 45-year-old Mundine plans to wrap up his boxing career with a victory over the 28-year-old Zerafa.
"I knew I would have to prepare well for this fight as Zerafa is hungry and wants it," Mundine said.
"More than likely this could be my last fight, win lose or draw.
"All the pressure is on him, he's the one who has to deliver. But I am coming to fight and I am coming to win."
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Mundine heads into the night with a 48-10 record on the back of his most recent fight in 2019 against John Wayne Parr which he lost via split decision.
Zerafa's (27-4) most recent bout was also back in 2019 against Jeff Horn where he lost via majority decision, after having beaten Horn months earlier via TKO at the Bendigo Stadium.
"I've been the underdog before, shocked the world and have been in the ring with the best," Zerafa said.
"Mundine is a legend of the sport and someone I've looked up to since I was a little kid.
"My dream fight is now here and it's a must win for me."
The rising star plans to use the opportunity against Mundine as a stepping-stone to his next goal, time in the ring with Tim Tszyu.
Zerafa made headlines a few months ago after approaching Tszyu telling him to step up in class, right after he exited the ring following his knockout victory over Bowyn Morgan
However, first up is Mundine which Zerafa enters the fight as the favourite, but he's taking no chances.
"I haven't had a day off since my last fight and have trained everyday since," Zerafa said.
"This is the best I've ever felt. I am super strong and just can't wait to get out there."
Mundine, who is also a former rugby league player, has years of experience in the ring and is a former world champion.
Over the years he has learned a thing or two about ensuring he is at his peak.
"I am always training and staying on my feet. You have to in this game," Mundine said.
"Sit down for too long and you will lose your sharpness and your head.
"I can't afford to do that as I want to shock the world.
"We both believe in ourselves which means the best man is going to win."
The sold out fight is Saturday night at the Bendigo Stadium with the first event on the cards scheduled to begin at 5.30pm.
Fight card
- Sam Abdulrahim v Stuart Stokes
- Benjamin Bommber v Scott Kelly
- Josh Gottschalk v John Min
- Mason Smith v Rayn Ingram
- Lachlan Higgins v Ryan Mitchem
- Cherneka Johnson v Shannon O'Connell
- Blake Caparello v Faris Chevalier (WBA Oceania light-heavyweight title)
- Michael Zerafa v Anthony Mundine (WBA Oceania middleweight title)