“Knockout” Charlo Calls His Shot At Hogan Presser

On Thursday, Jermall Charlo and Dennis Hogan met for the first time prior to their December 7th showdown at Barclays Center.

Charlo will make the second defense of his WBC world middleweight title against Hogan, who is fighting in his second straight title fight across two divisions.

“Brooklyn, we’re back,” Charlo stated at the start of the proceedings. “It’s been a while since we’ve fought here but the Barclays is home for Lions Only. Barclays Center is the spot where everyone wants to fight. It feels like a new home.”

“Hogan has some big hope,” the defending champion said of his challenger. “Middleweight is my division. I want the biggest fights at 160. That’s not on the menu right now, so I’m going to take care of what’s here.

“I am the best fighter at 160-pounds. In due time, the world will get a chance to see me reveal the best version of myself.

“I’m not worried about Hogan’s confidence,” Charlo continued. “He is just number 30 to me. We’re going to get in there well prepared. I could fight tomorrow. Hogan is going to get a chance to see what he can do against my speed and my skills.

“This is going to be a knockout on December 7. I’m going to walk him straight into it. I’m going to give him exactly what he wants.”

“I’m looking forward to becoming the next Irish fighter to come to New York and become a world champion,” Hogan told the press. “I believe that me taking this fight speaks volumes on what kind of fighter I am. I’m on record that I feel like the champion in my heart, and it’s only a matter of time before the belt is on my wait. It’s destiny. It’s time for me to become world champion.

“I’m one of the hardest workers in the sport. Anyone who trains with me, knows that. I have laser focus on that belt and I believe that it’s mine.”

“Five years ago I was told super-welterweight was the weight to campaign at,” Hogan said to advice he was given before he went pro. “At that point I was the light heavyweight champion of Ireland. But as I went down in weight, that knockout power seemed to leave me. That last bit that I won’t need to drain for this fight will be all the difference and all I need on December 7.

“I’ve always been heavy-handed, but I think the power will be back. I have the speed of a welterweight, the agility of a 154-pounder and the chin of a heavyweight. When you put it all together, this is going to be a great fight.