Matthew Macklin set for World title shot

Macklin (onthe left) is fighting for a world title
for the first time in his 30-fight career

Birmingham middleweight Matthew Macklin says he has no doubts that he will be crowned World Champion when he takes on Felix Sturm in Germany on 25 June.

Two-time European champion Macklin, 29, meets WBA holder Sturm in Cologne in front of 20,000 fans.

"I'm going to win, there is no doubt in my mind about that," Macklin said.

"Felix is a great technician, he has been a great champion but this is my time and my strength and power will be decisive in winning the fight."

Macklin, with 28 wins from 30 fights, has risen up the rankings since becoming British Champion in March 2009 when he knocked out Wayne Elcock and beat Amin Asikainen to win the European title six months later.

After vacating the European belt, Macklin saw hugely-anticipated fights with Darren Barker and veteran American Ronald 'Winky' Wright cancelled when they both suffered injuries.

Macklin himself pulled out of a world-title eliminator against Khoren Gevor in April 2011 and now has a direct shot at Sturm.

"There's just over five weeks left now and my preparations could not be going any better," he said.

"I was already very excited about the fight and coming face to face with Felix has only made me more confident that I will be taking that belt home next month."

Sturm, 32, first won the WBA title in March 2006 but lost it in his first defence against Javier Castillejo.

After winning a rematch a year later, Sturm has remained undefeated but the German has a healthy respect for Macklin.

"He's an outstanding challenger. He has earned his chance and is one of the five best middleweights in the world.

"It will be a war but I will be ready for anything and I will do whatever it takes to keep my title," Sturm said.

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