Manchester ace John Murray has warned London rival Kevin Mitchell that he'll dump him into boxing's second division - just like his beloved West Ham Utd.
Eastender Mitchell takes on Murray at the ExCeL Arena on July 9 in London in a huge Battle of Britain showdown, live on Sky Sports 1HD.
Mitchell will have a partisan West Ham crowd, but Murray - a die-hard Manchester City fan - has warned that after enduring a nightmare season under Avram Grant, there will be no respite for unhappy Hammers next month.
"West Ham dropped down to the second tier of English football, and Kevin will be following them as far as boxing is concerned," said Murray.
"I want a place at the top table of this sport and Kevin is standing in my way, but after July 9 I'll have a clear road to the world title.
"I've followed Kevin's career closely and just like West Ham he's had some glory days.
"He should be looking at easier fixtures and unfortunately for him he won't be getting one against me.
"The only thing that will be claret and blue will be Kevin's face on the night."
Murray and Mitchell meet for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental lightweight title at the ExCeL, with a world title shot the likely reward for the winner.
The pair have long been rivals since their amateur days, and the fight promises to be one of the best domestic showdowns of the year.
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
