Antonio Tarver believes it is his "destiny" to become the oldest world heavyweight champion in history.
Tarver, a five-time world champion at light-heavyweight, is hoping to get a crack at reigning heavyweight king Wladimir Klitschko but for that to happen he will first have to see off Steve Cunningham next month. The pair meet in Newark, New Jersey, on August 14.
Were he to win the world heavyweight crown, the 46-year-old would eclipse George Foreman's record of winning the title at the age of 45.
"I am supposed to be world heavyweight champion," said Tarver. "I don't know how but I will be world heavyweight champion. I truly believe that it is my destiny. Cunningham can't stop me and neither can (Deontay) Wilder; he can't learn enough to beat me. I'll knock him out and get the one guy I really want to fight, Klitschko.
"When I beat him it'll be the greatest story in boxing history. All the disbelievers will have to believe in 'Magic Man'."
He added: "Three years ago, I was buried six-feet under but they forgot to put dirt on me. Champions have to have resolve. I could have quit a lot of times. My resolve will make me world champion once again. No fighter has ever struggled like me and overcoming those struggles will make me world champion again."
Tarver insists age is not a barrier and that he maintains his ring speed.
"I know I'm getting older because the calendar flips over once a year," he said, "but I don't look at it as me getting old. I'm not saying I don't wake up in pain during training camp without minor injuries, but nothing can stop me.
"It's not an accident that I still have my speed and quickness. I am better today in many respects because I'm smarter from all of my experience."