REDDITCH boxer Andrew Robinson insists he will rise to the challenge when he takes on much-fancied Mark Heffron for the vacant WBC International Title on Saturday.
‘D’Animal’ was pushed all the way in defeating Nicky Jenman on points in his last fight to clinch the IBO Continental Middleweight belt and admits he was far from at his best in the Birmingham bout.
However, the 33-year-old believes he has the attributes to spring what many believe will be a big upset on the Tyson Fury (versus Sefer Seferi) comeback undercard at the Manchester Arena.
Speaking to Black Country Boxing Promotions (BCB), orthodox Robinson said: “Heffron is a knockout artist but I’ve got one of the best chins in the business. I have durabilty, heart and desire and I can punch too.
“I’ve taken other top lads from Frank Warren’s stable to places they haven’t been before but decisions didn’t go my way. I’m going to right those wrongs.”
Oldham’s Heffron is undefeated in 19 fights and numerous local boxing pundits believe he will prove too strong for Robinson, despite the latter’s undoubted reputation for a tear-up and huge courage.
However, Robinson is adamant the sparring he has gone through with BCB stablemate Ricky Summers will stand him in good stead.
“Training been best camp of my whole career. I’ve done the distance endless times,” added Robinson.
“Malcolm Melvin has me throwing more than 1,000 punches in ten rounds and I know I can throw punches for every second of every round.
“I don’t know how I’m going to win, I just know I’m not going to lose. God is in my corner, (so) what can man do to me?”
His belief is echoed by trainer and former top professional Melvin who said: “Heffron has a massive talent but is untested in such deep waters.
“He’s a good lad and very strong but, at the end of the day, who has he fought? Andrew has been there, done it and worn the T-shirt.
“I think it will be a good fight and if Andrew keeps cool there’s no reason why he doesn’t win this fight.”
Robinson, who would likely become a challenger for the British title with victory, has suffered plenty of heartache in his career, perhaps most notably when Essex man Lee Markham was declared a hugely controversial winner of the English title at Brentwood.
However, this weekend offers another chance for the dedicated and stubborn Robinson against a hot prospect known for his lightning-quick hands. An exciting battle awaits!
