Floyd Mayweather Jr insists he has the ultimate respect for May 5 opponent Miguel Cotto - but is supremely confident he will extend his record to 43-0 as a pro when they clash in Las Vegas.
The 35-year-old has been granted the fight before starting a 90-day jail term on June 1 for domestic abuse and he is determined that he will maintain his perfect record.
But 31-year-old Cotto (39-2 30KOs), at 154 pounds and clearly a bigger fighter than Mayweather has taken on since Oscar De La Hoya exactly five years ago on May 5, is considered a dangerous opponent.
"I can't overlook a guy like Miguel Cotto," said Mayweather.
"The fans should watch this [fight] because in my eyes Miguel Cotto is an undefeated fighter. He fought one guy at a catch weight and another guy who got in trouble for cheating. He's strong a knockout puncher and he always comes out and fights in a pleasing way.
"But last time I checked, all 42 [of my opponents] have been dangerous, but they all ended up in the same place.
"The key to me winning is being in control like always, keeping my composure like always and never going out of character.
"Uncle Roger said this is the hardest he's ever seen me train. This is the hardest he's ever seen me work for a fight.
"The hard work has been done. During fight week, we will focus on shadow boxing, mental work and light training.
"It's been a roller coaster ride throughout my whole career, but I'm blessed to be where I am and I want to continue to go out there and dominate.
"I'm always looking to give the fans what they want to see."
Cotto is just as confident that he has the tools to put a first defeat on Mayweather's stellar record.
I know I'm going against a strong defensive fighter who doesn't consider losing an option," he said.
"I know it will be tough. But based on where I am right know and where I know I will be on May 5, I can say without doubt that I will prove to the world that I am the better fighter."
