Boxing: Berridge to make statement

Robert Berridge (right) goes eyeball to eyeball with Brazilian Rogerio Damasco at the weigh-ins yesterday afternoon. Photo/Supplied

Wanganui ex-pat boxer Robert Berridge will look to expend two months' worth of frustration on Brazilian Rogerio Damasco during this evening's Hydr8 Zero Heavyweight Explosion fight night in Manukau.

The main undercard fight on the Joseph Parker vs Brian Minto pay-per-view at Vodafone Events Centre, Berridge (23-1-1) looked ready and slightly ticked during yesterday's weigh-ins, where he came in comfortably at the light-heavyweight mark of 78.4kg.

Cornerman and cousin Paul Berridge said Damasco (12-1-2) loved the spotlight of the cameras, taking the microphone from the announcer and reiterating his claim to be the "Brazilian Tyson" and predicting a first round knockout.

Speaking in Portuguese, most of what Damasco said was not understood by "the Butcher", but Paul Berridge said body language spoke louder than words.

"Rob had a few words to say as well.

"These times leading into fights are always the hardest for fighters, when they're dehydrated to make sure they make weight.

"Fuses are shorter than usual."

After negotiations broke down for Berridge to receive a shot at WBO champion Sergey Kovalev in August, as he had to withdraw from his May fight with Adrian Taihia due to a knuckle injury, the 29-year-old was determined to put on a good show tonight to reassure the boxing fraternity that he was still on track to reach the top.

The TAB agrees, making him the clear favourite over Damasco, with one anonymous punter reportedly putting $5000 on him to win.

Leading American boxing commentator "Colonel" Bob Sheridan also voiced his praise during the introductions at the weigh-in yesterday.

"Robert really impresses me as a guy who has world-class ability.

"I look for big things from him on the world scene. You'll realise that in years to come."

The pay-per-view starts at 8pm on Sky Arena.

Wanganui's Stellar Restaurant & Bar will also be showing the event in town.