KABARY Salem has warned Gwent's Joe Calzaghe, pictured, that it will be war when the two meet on Friday night in Edinburgh to contest the WBO super-middleweight title.

New York-based Salem, 36, known as the 'Egyptian magician' has an impressive record in his seven years as a professional, with 23 victories (12 by knockout) and only three defeats to his name.

But Salem has also earned a reputation as a nasty type of fighter and has appeared to head butt several opponents during his professional career.

In his last fight, when he lost controversially on points to German Mario Veit in Dortmund, the fight was delayed after Salem broke referee Manuel Maritxalar's nose in an accidental headbutt.

He was also involved in a fight that ended in tragedy, when his opponent Randie Carver died of brain injuries in 1999.

Salem was subsequently accused by the fight promoter and Carver's relatives of repeated butting in that fight, although he was later exonerated of any blame for the death.

But Salem makes no apologies for being perceived as a dirty fighter and he has warned Calzaghe to make sure he is ready for a war.

He said: "I try my best to make my fights clean - but if they are wild and wrestling then I am ready to go.

"This is my biggest chance so I can't be a nice guy. I have to be tough and rough and if he is a man then he has to be ready for that.

"This is my business, I do not fight for the fun but because I want to win and I like to see the pain, I am a tough fighter and I will pick my time to beat him."

Salem, who is hoping to become the first Egyptian world champion, lost a split decision to Veit in his last fight, a man who Calzaghe destroyed in under two minutes in 2001.

But Salem is certain (as many observers are) that he should have been given the decision over the German.

He explained: "I wish you could all have seen that fight, it was a home town decision and the referee kept pulling us apart for no reason.

"He deserved a beating and if I get to hurt an opponent I do it.

"I give Joe respect but this is the right time for me.

"Joe's opinion is that he will win - good for him - but whatever he thinks, I know that I am ready to beat him.

"And if I win this title I could defend it in my home country of Egypt, which would be a dream for me, that is my plan."