By Miguel Rivera

WBA lightweight champion Vasiliy Lomachenko (11-1, 9 KOs) has laughed off the recent statements from his upcoming opponent, WBO lightweight champion Jose 'Sniper' Pedraza (25-1, 12 KOs).

The fight takes place on December 8 at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

At a recent open media workout, Pedraza stated - "Technically speaking, [Lomachenko] has never faced a fighter like me."

Of course Lomachenko was in disbelief after being advised of Pedraza's position on the matter.

"Does he really believe that?," said a laughing Lomachenko to Victor Ortiz.

"This is what I've always wanted, to unify titles. This has always been my goal and it will take me a step closer to becoming the undisputed champion. After this fight it will be easier for me to unify the titles. I do not expect him to give me anything. I'm going to get into the ring to do what I know how to do well."

Pedraza feels some added confidence, as he expects a very packed crowd with Puerto Rican fans.

"I'm very excited for this fight and even more because the fight will be in New York where I will have the support of all the Puerto Ricans," Pedraza said.

"The fans can expect an even more focused and intelligent Jose Pedraza in the ring. On that night, I will show all my skills."

But Lomachenko is not bothered by the possibility of a hostile crowd and he expects plenty of fans of his own in the audience.

Back in June 2016, at MSG, Lomachenko knocked out Puerto Rican veteran Roman Martinez, and the three division champion claims that he saw just as many Ukrainian flags in the venue.

"It's not the first time I've faced a Puerto Rican in New York. The last time we faced a Puerto Rican, the same things were said. But when you looked [into the crowd] you could see just as many flags of Ukraine as there were of Puerto Rico," Lomachenko said.