US based Ghanaian welterweight, Emmanuel Lartey has vowed to stop unbeaten Sammy Vasquez in their 10-round scheduled fight at CONSOL Energy Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania later tonight.
33 year old Lartey of Brooklyn, NY by way of Ghana last fought in June last year when he ended a 2-fight losing streak (his only career defeats) with a unanimous points victory over Steve Forbes at the Emerald Queen Casino, Tacoma, Washington, USA.
But the Ghanaian remains unfazed, speaking tough after making a weight of 146.5 kilos to the 147.25 of home boy, Vasquez at yesterday’s pre-fight weigh-in.
Lartey (17-2, 8 KOs) who has never been knocked out is aiming to visit such punishment on the 28 year old Vasquez (17-0, 13 KOs), who has knocked out nine straight opponents heading into tonight’s clash.
“He hasn’t faced the type of guys that I’ve faced; he hasn’t faced the opposition that I have. He’s going to be surprised when he steps in the ring with me,” Lartey said.
“No, I’m not worried about fighting in his hometown. I can win with a decision, but I’m going to be looking for the knockout to make an impression and make a statement,” he explained.
The Ghanaian added: “He’s definitely underestimating me. Sammy has built up his record with cupcakes. This is going to be a good test for him and a good test for me. I’m going to be the one walking out with a W.”
Undefeated Vasquez confessed to the strengths of Lartey but is confidnet of upstaging the Ghanaian in the ring.
“This fight is definitely going to be exciting. I can’t talk trash about Emmanuel – he’s a tough guy who has faced two U.S. Olympians and never been dropped. So there’s not much I can say about him. I’m looking to open up some flaws. I’ve seen a couple of things I can do to maybe make him hit that canvas,” Vasquez said.