BSO: How does this fight against Kovalev compare to the other big fights you’ve been in during your career?
Pascal: It’s just like any other fight, he has good skills, and a great punch but I’ve been up against better fighters. I’ve been up against the best. 24 rounds with Hopkins, chad Dawson, crochet.
BSO: Do you plan on standing toe-to-toe with Kovalev and testing his power?
Pascal: Of course I’m a soldier, in a warrior. I know I can take a punch. I know it can take only an inch to get knocked out but I want a fight.
BSO: What would a victory over Kovalev mean for your boxing career?
Pascal: A win over Kovalev should put me in the p4p list. I’ve faced the best and I want to be the best light heavyweight in the world.
BSO: You’ve obviously watched a lot of film on Kovalev, what’s your opinion of him as a fighter?
Pascal: Kovalev doesn’t have a lot of flaws. But like I a said no body is perfect. Kovalev is a dirty fighter he loves to punch after the breaks & when guys are clinching. All it takes is one wrong punch to get dizzy. I have to be aware of him being dirty.
BSO: Why do you think many fans and media aren’t giving you a chance in this fight?
Pascal: I don’t care about people’s opinions, my skills pay my bills. Everyone thought Dawson was faster than me & I beat him easy. I don’t care what people think. Like Roger Mayweather said; “They don’t know sh*t about boxing.”
BSO: How do you feel physically entering this fight?
Pascal: It’s a cliche, but right now I’m 32 but I think I’m the best shape on my life. I feel fresh & in shape. I think March 14th is going to be great.
BSO: Do you embrace the underdog role many people paint you into?
Pascal: I don’t know why they always out me as the underdog. I’ve been to the Olympics, I’ve faced the best as a pro. Maybe because I’m Canadian, maybe because I don’t speak your language. I don’t mind, I love being the underdog.
Kovalev-PAscal will air live Saturday, March 14th at 9:45 PM EST on HBO.