"I'M THE man, I'm number one and I'll prove it on Saturday."

That was WBO super-middleweight champion Joe Calzaghe's reaction to a suggestion he faced his toughest fight yet against American Byron Mitchell at the CIA.

"There have been a lot of alphabet champions at my weight but even when Mitchell was world champion he was No 3.

"And Sven Ottke (who defeated Mitchell for the WBA version last time out) is not number one. I am and I'll prove that in style tomorrow night.

"I wanted this fight. It was not forced upon me. And when people see how I beat this guy they'll see I'm the best."

Calzaghe's toughest defence in 12 so far was against American Charles Brewer and some people believe Mitchell will prove just as tough.

His two world title defeats are the only blemishes on his 29-fight record and he has 18 KOs to his name while never being knocked down.

"He's a world class fighter but I've seen flaws in him," said Calzaghe. "I definitely have the edge in hand speed and I'll make that pay. I aim to win in style.

"I love being world champion and I aim to stay champion. I'm not looking for it to go to the judges. I'm aiming for a knock-out."

And after that he admits he may have to step up to light heavyweight "just to get a tough fight because I'm dealing with all the guys in my weight so comfortably."

Calzaghe has had to put up with three postponements this year and has been in the gym on and off for months.

The result is that he looked trimmer and fitter than ever at yesterday's head-to-head and he admitted it could work in his favour.

Both boxers showed great respect for each other with Mitchell saying, "We come from similar backgrounds, both bullied as kids and we have both had to prove ourselves.

"I thought he was arrogant but now I have great respect for him.

"I think our fight will be a great one. Joe likes to come forward and fight. It will be fireworks."

His trainer Al Bonani said: "I called Ottke the snake charmer because he lulled you to sleep with his holding and running.

"Calzaghe wants to fight, so does Byron, and it should be really exciting."