I want to defend and put my title on the line as much as possible. If the top in the division are ready to try to come and take my belt – and the key word is ‘try’ – I’m ready to give them that opportunity.
This is no game. You get up in there, and you take some punches. You risk your life, and then let me see you talk then. That’s why I don’t respect people who criticize fighters.
When I structured my career, I looked at Muhammad Ali, which is my all-time favorite and an idol of mine, and what he has done for this sport. He was a real-life hero.
I have so many things that I want to do with my life. I just don’t see myself being a fighter forever. Boxing is my love and passion. It also opens up and sets up other things in my life as well.
