Dawson exudes confidence for IBF and IBO title defense

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - IBF and IBO light-heavyweight champion Chad Dawson has predicted a knockout inside six rounds in his rematch with fellow American Antonio Tarver in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Dawson, 26, won both titles in a unanimous decision over the aging Tarver when the pair met in October and he believes his opponent is unworthy of a second bout.

"Saturday night is going to be like deer hunting," southpaw Dawson told reporters in the build-up to the contest at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. "I have Tarver in my sights and I'm going to take him down.

"We are going to finish the Antonio Tarver story. I don't think it lasts past the sixth round.

"I am going to steam into him with everything I've got," said Dawson who is unbeaten in 27 fights, including 17 knockouts, and is widely regarded as the future of the light-heavyweight division.

"I have speed and power and there is no way he'll be able to keep up with me. He didn't deserve this rematch but I had no choice. It was the only way I could get the first fight with him. I'm in great shape. Tarver cannot stop me."

JONES KNOCKOUT

The 40-year-old Tarver, who stunned the boxing world by knocking out Roy Jones in 2004, has not lost a rematch in three attempts.

"It's going to be a great victory on Saturday night," said the southpaw, 27-5 (19 knockouts).

"I'll be laying it all on the line. I have nothing to lose and everything to gain. I'm ready and I love the position I'm in.

"I'm bringing my A-game and I'm focused. I'm putting everyone on notice. That wasn't me in our last fight and I'm going to make amends for that loss."

Tarver believes having trainer Buddy McGirt back in his corner will provide the "secret ingredient" for him to claim back the IBF and IBO titles.

(Editing by Tony Jimenez. To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)