Kevin Mitchell says his fight with rival John Murray could be like a Marvin Hagler-Thomas Hearns brawl when they meet next month.

 

Dagenham scrapper Mitchell is gearing up for his all-on-the line showdown against the Manchester ace at the ExCeL London, on July 9th, live on Sky Sports 1HD.

 


 

The opening round of the 1985 showdown between Hagler and Hearns in Las Vegas is regarded as the most explosive three minutes ever seen in a championship ring, that Hagler went on to famously win.

 

Mitchell, 26, said, "I'll stand and trade with Murray in the centre of the ring, I'm not training to box him, I'm training to have a fight with him,"

 

"Murray only knows how to come forward throwing bombs and I don't plan on taking any steps backwards either so it could end up being a war,"

 

"I've seen the Hagler-Hearns classic many times and it's the most devastating fight I've ever seen. I wouldn't be surprised if our fight ended up like that, with me emerging the winner like Hagler.

 

The vacant WBO Intercontinental Lightweight title is on the line with the winner looking at a world title opportunity, but Mitchell is focused on Murray instead of titles.

 

He added, "I've dedicated myself to this fight and there's been no messing about from me. Everything is on the line for me, my career and future so the only thing on my mind is beating Murray.

 

"This isn't just about titles or a world title shot, there is a lot more at stake. We've both got egos, pride, and there's the North-South rivarly, but we both believe that we are the best in the division.

 

"I'm out to prove that I'm number one and I've got a lot to make up for after I was beat by Katsidis, I'm giving it back to my family, fans and friends, they know what the real Kevin Mitchell is like and they will see him against Murray."

 

Tickets for North 'n South are available now, priced at £40, £50, £75, £100, £150 and £200, from 0844 844 0444 or ticketmaster.co.uk