Rances Barthelemy attempted to become a three weight world champion last year in a rematch against Kiryl Relikh. The vacant WBA title was picked up by the Belarusian who went into the WBSS.
Barthelemy found himself returning to lightweight with a matchup against Robert Easter Jr. on the cards.
Speaking to WBN in an exclusive interview, Barthelemy talked about his training and preparations.
“Everything is going great, I feel a lot better physically, conditioning is going really well, I’m feeling strong. I’m really happy with the work that has been going on,” Barthelemy exclusively told World Boxing News.
Both men are looking to get back into the mix, and with two world titles on the line, Barthelemy couldn’t be happier with the fight.
“I think we both need it. It’s coming in good timing for both of our careers. We’re both good fighters so the match up is great. You can’t get any better than that.”
Easter Jr. last time out lost a wide points decision to Mikey Garcia. The top fighter in the division, Garcia is expected to return at the weight after being called out post-fight by Lomachenko.
In a crossroads style fight, Barthelemy and Easter Jr. will meet on the 27th to decide who returns as a world champion.
“I feel like for the fans, it’s going to be a spectacle for them. Given the comparison between us, we’re very similar in height and stature,” he explained.
“The matchup is really good. They say styles make fights so I’m expecting a great outcome to put on for the fans.”
Barthelemy lost a wide points decision last year to Kiryl Relikh. He now has the opportunity now to redeem his performance.
“Yes, during my last defeat things were not in place that needed to be in place. So I’m looking forward to making a comeback as a champion.
“I’ve made major adjustments not only in my corner but to my camp and training. So I have even more hunger than I did before to gain not only my title back but to complete that personal goal for myself.
ELITE
“I want to prove to myself that I’m still at the pinnacle of my career and an elite fighter. Also, I want to prove myself to the world.
“I obviously see myself with my hands up in the air at the end of the fight, whenever I step into the ring that’s the objective.
“That’s my mentality. That I’m going to end up winning so that’s still my mentality this time around.
“I’m confident that I’m going to be able to execute my game plan and finish strong,” concluded Barthelemy.
Chandler Waller is a staff writer for World Boxing News. Follow Chandler on Twitter @ChandlerWaller
