Ekow Essuman promises a ‘special’ performance when he faces Josh Taylor Saturday night.
The 36-year-old has an opportunity to upset Taylor’s return in the Scotsmans backyard no less.
He is at an advantage because he is a fully fledged welterweight whereas it will be his opponents debut in the weight class.
The ‘Tartan Tornado’ will be competing almost a year since his last contest, a loss to bitter rival Jack Catterall.
But it is no concern for the former British and Commonwealth champion.
Of course he promises something ‘special’ but exactly what that will be is kept close to his chest.
Speaking to Ring Magazine, he said: “You guys are going to see something special. That’s all I can say.
“I’d like to think you’ll see sides of me that you know already, but you’ll see other sides too.”
But even this guarantee will need to be backed up against one of Britain’s finest fighters.
A previous loss to Harry Scarff is not a distant memory for ‘The Engine’ but he believes it was a benefit.
He explained: “I was probably all risk and no reward at a certain point whereas you know what they say, you take a defeat and then everyone smells blood in the water and suddenly they want a bit.
“Maybe it’s a blessing in disguise. I learned a few lessons off that experience (the loss to Scarff), and it’s true to form. You can see I’ve learned something, so I’m doing good.”
Essuman explains respect for Taylor
Refreshingly there is a huge amount of respect between both men.
Glasgow’s own at 34 has achieved what many can only dream of becoming Undisputed at super lightweight.
Known for his impeccable run and spiteful performances, Essuman is excited to share the ring with someone who shares a similar mindset.
“He knows I respect him. I’ve been training hard for it because I know he’s going to pose a hard puzzle to solve but I am going to solve it,” he said
“He’s just like me though. When I respect someone there’s extra venom in the ring. I can only expect that from him so it’s the same on both sides.”
Essuman’s win guarantee
Even if it is all respectful the proud Botswana fighter knows what’s at stake.
A vacant WBO ranking belt is a good prize but the pride of beating and having that scalp on the record is bigger than any title.
Essuman promises a performance regardless of Taylor’s ability.
And he is not lacking in confidence, he said: “Yeah, regardless of if he has the answers or not, he will come apart because
“I’m not going to let anything else happen but that. Respectfully.”
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
