Devon Alexander will meet Marcos Maidana in HBO Boxing After Dark in what will be a clash of styles as the speedy and technical Alexander faces a hard-hitting brawler in Maidana.
Alexander doesn't seem scared of Maidana's power, coming off a controversial win against a very similar fighter in Lucas Matthysse.
"I think speed kills in any sport," said Alexander. "I always pick speed over power any day. Power [is going to] catch up to speed, and if you can't catch up to speed then [you're] lost."
Alexander feels his speed is stronger than ever now that he's moved up to fighting at 147 pounds, a weight that feels much more natural to the boxer.
"I definitely feel good at the weight," said Alexander. "I don't have to worry about cutting down all the way down to 147. I'm more comfortable at 147 so I feel good about that."
The boxer can focus on training for the fight rather than cutting weight, something he had a lot of trouble with when he was in the welter junior division at 140 lbs.
"I'm anxious to get back in there and show people that I'm one of the best fighters in the world. That's what I plan to do Feb. 25," said Alexander. "I [have to] show what kind of skill and what kind of fighter I am. I got my energy back. I'm at a 100 percent."
Alexander has already prepared a gameplan with his coach for the upcoming fight and is ready to show the world his victories have not been a fluke.
"All I [have to] do is do what I do," said Alexander.
The new weight class has certainly helped Alexander, who feels more confident than he ever has for a fight now that he doesn't have to worry about weight.
"I think boxing is definitely 80 percent mental and the rest physical," said Alexander. "You want to be comfortable going into the ring and knowing you feel good and you'll be able to go all night.
Alexander will fight in St. Louis, his home town, where he has received favorable decisions from judges in the past.
"It's always good to fight in front of family and friends and people that will root you on," Alexander said. "It is added motivation."
No matter what happens on Saturday night, Alexander is ready to make a splash in one of the most competitive divisions in the sport.
"The sky is the limit after this fight," said Alexander. I'm definitely looking to make a big splash at 147 and you can see my resume. I'll fight anybody."
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