Russian heavyweight contender Alexander Povetkin faces David Price in a 12-round bout on the undercard of the Anthony Joshua-Joseph Parker unification matchup at the Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, on Saturday.

The 38-year-old Povetkin (33-1, 23 knockouts) appears to be in excellent fighting shape but openly admits this is a big occasion for him.

“I’m maybe a little bit nervous because it’s the first time in such a big event,” Povetkin told RingTV.com through an interpreter. “I want to show a brilliant performance on Saturday night, especially in a country where boxing started as a sport.”

Povetkin, who is ranked No. 4 by THE RING at heavyweight, knows Price (22-4, 18 KOs) has significant physical advantages: six inches in height, seven inches in reach and 25 pounds plus in weight. However, the 2004 Olympic gold medalist expects his superior pedigree to shine through.

“One of his advantages is he will try to keep the fight at distance,” said Povetkin. “His right hand is quite powerful, but in other fights the condition of David Price isn’t good. That could be the main thing that could influence the fight.

“I need to box inside and stay close so he can’t use his reach; be close to him and do my job. One of the key moves is to give him head and body movement, not just go straight to him.”

Povetkin, who is ranked No. 1 by the WBA and the WBO, hasn’t traveled 3500 miles just to win; he’s looking to make a statement. “People are always looking for a knockout, especially from the heavyweights.” stated the visitor, who has won five of his last seven fights by stoppage.

This will be the first time since September 2012 that Povetkin has traveled. He has been headlining events in Russia exclusively for the past four years, but jumped at the opportunity to compete on U.K. soil.

“I love Great Britain, I boxed here as an amateur. I needed it at this stage of my career,” said Povetkin, who is desperate for a world title opportunity.

“Anthony Joshua [is my target and] it doesn’t matter what belts he has. I think he’s the best and I want to fight the best.”

Questions and/or comments can be sent to Anson at [email protected] and you can follow him on Twitter @AnsonWainwright

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