Robson Conceicao knows he’s being led to what many believe is his demise. This Saturday night, the former Olympic gold medalist will saunter through T-Mobile Arena with Emanuel Navarrete patiently waiting for him in the ring.

Oddsmakers, fans, critics, and media members are normally on opposite sides of the betting coin. But, this time around, the consensus around their showdown is a simple one, Conceicao is in over his head.

Angst would normally set in for the Cuban. Hasn’t he done enough to prove himself on the elite level? A controversial loss to Oscar Valdez proved that he was one of the super featherweight division’s best. However, a lopsided defeat at the hands of Shakur Stevenson knocked him down a few pegs.

That aforementioned loss painted Conceicao in the worst conceivable light to the rest of the boxing public. It was painful to accept, but the 35-year-old isn’t dwelling on the past. He also doesn’t become apoplectic when his naysayers warn him of the painful night he has coming his way.

The doubters, nonbelievers, and cynics will all be addressed in due time.

“I’m ready to shock the world,” Conceicao told Thaboxingvoice.

Calling Navarrete an awkward fighter is pointing out the obvious. Dealing with someone incredibly tricky can be cumbersome but Conceicao isn’t too worried about their Thursday clash. As the Mexican star has made his way through multiple weight classes, Conceicao has watched him closely.

Coming up with a game plan to knock the current WBO titlist off his high horse wasn’t the easiest thing in the world. Conceicao also acknowledges that following one strategy isn’t likely to get it done either. With that said, he’ll be multifaceted in his approach in order to get the job done.

“I have to be smart and strategic but I also have to make a statement in order to come out the new world champion.”