Lennox Lewis will enter the ring to defend his world heavyweight crown in Los Angeles tomorrow the heaviest he has ever been for a title fight.
Lewis (37) tipped the scales at a massive 18 stone four pounds at the Staples Centre yesterday - eight pounds heavier than challenger Vitali Klitschko even though Lewis is almost three inches shorter than the Ukrainian.
Lewis's management immediately attributed the weight, about half a stone heavier than when he demolished Mike Tyson in his last fight 12 months ago, to the late change of opponent, with the big-hitting Klitschko different to the more mobile Kirk Johnson who pulled out injured.
Lewis vowed: "I am totally focused on this fight and there has been no complacency. I respect Klitschko but he is not in my class.
"Klitschko just does not have my experience or my skills and I will prove that in the ring. I am in good shape and I am ready. Now I just can't wait for the fight as he is going to get it full force".
Victory could bring Lewis a swansong against Roy Jones Jnr later this year with Lewis hinting that retirement is not far off. Alternatively, a shock defeat could effectively end his 14-year professional career.