By Ben Jacobs

The Britannia International Hotel in Canary Wharf was the setting for today’s final press conference for Matchroom Sports’ big bill at the O2 arena this Saturday night.  2012 Olympic Gold medal winner, Anthony Joshua, in his debut fight, faces little known Italian, Emanuele Leo (8-0, 3KOs).  In addition, Bury’s Scott Quigg will face Cuban Yoandris Salinas for the WBA super-bantamweight title.

BoxingScene was able to speak briefly with Leo after the press conference.

“I’m really happy to be in London even if I’ve seen little of the city,” said the 32-year-old.

“Regarding Anthony, I know he’s a top fighter, I’ll try to be better than him.

“I’ve heard some comments from people that he didn’t deserve the gold medal. [Roberto] Cammarelle (the man Joshua defeated in the Olympic Games final) is a friend of mine, I would have preferred him to win but as far as the result goes – no comment!

“I’ve never fought a fighter as strong as Anthony but I’ve fought a few who were pretty strong,” he added.

“I trained in Puglia, in the south of Italy.  Training went well but it’s down to my trainer to judge that!”

Another interesting bout on the card is that of Kevin Mitchell (34-2, 24KOs) who will be hoping to continue his progress in an attempt to eventually land another world title shot.  The East London man takes on Mexico’s Marcos López (23-2, 14KOs).

“I haven’t looked at him [Mitchell] on video but I do know about him,” López told BoxingScene. 

“I’m well trained for this fight.  He knows what to do in the ring and so do I.  We’ll see who had the best preparation and that will determine who wins this fight. 

“They say sometimes you need a knockout to win away from home but we think we can win a decision if it’s a clear victory. 

“To me the fans are important, I want the fans to see a good show and go home satisfied.  I’ll show the best of me!”

López stressed that although he has fought most of his career at super-featherweight, he has no problems fighting a division above in a clash that will be for the IBF Intercontinental lightweight title.