Never one to be too shy, legendary promoter Don King has waded in on the forthcoming clash between heavyweights Joe Joyce and Bermane Stiverne on February 23.
The pair collide at The O2 in London on a massive UK Pay-Per-View bill. Joyce begins an overwhelming favorite in boxing betting despite only having a handful of fights as a pro.
Stiverne is a former WBC champion, losing his belt to the formidable Deontay Wilder. King, in his usual flamboyant style, gave an epic rant on the London match-up.
Joyce has bludgeoned his way through early opposition. He hopes to be in world title contention by the back end of 2019.
‘The Juggernaut’ is a 2016 Olympic silver medallist and is already tipped as a future world champion.
“It is with my greatest pleasure that Don King Productions can announce our return to Jolly Old England – the ‘Cradle of Boxing.”
“This is where my pugilistic giant – the Former Heavyweight Champion of the World, Bermane Stiverne begins his comeback at the expense of the Giant Joe Joyce.
“Unfortunately, for the local fans of Joe, there will be no ‘re-Joycing.’ As my once – and future champion Bermane Stiverne will slay Joyce just like St. George did the dragon of old.
“But no matter, we will pick up the pieces and bring back Joyce just as I have brought back and helped build many a future together.
“I recall when I came here with Oliver McCall. He was given no chance against Lennox Lewis. Then the underdog became the top dog. Oliver KO’d the previously unbeaten champ, and we went home with the title.
“History will repeat itself of February 23 when Bermane sends another undefeated Englishman to defeat.”
STIVERNE
On Stiverne getting his career back on track and pushing towards the top division rankings, the ex-Mike Tyson handler added: “He’s now retooled, resuscitated, renewed, rejuvenated, and recommitted.
“Bermane Stiverne will resurrect his career on February 23. When the ‘Lord of Ring” crushes the “Lord of the World” – ‘Juggernaut” Joyce on his inexorable march to regain the world’s heavyweight championship.
“Bless all British fans. God Save the Queen. But heaven help Joe Joyce! Because I will see you on February 23,” he concluded.