Josh Taylor: I've dedicated my life to reaching this moment

Josh Taylor believes he will become unified world champion on Saturday by beating Jose Ramirez and says a win would see him make his mark on history.

The Scot puts his IBF and WBA junior welterweight belts on the line against WBO and WBC title-holder Ramirez in Las Vegas, hoping to become undisputed world champion.

Taylor, former Commonwealth Games gold medallist and with a 17-0 professional record, says all the hard work and tough fights in his career have been to take him towards the very top of the sport.

“This fight means the world to me, the Prestonpans fighter said at his final media conference in Vegas. “To be the first person from Scotland to do this in the four belt era, it’s a massive, massive piece of history.

“It puts my name in the history books as on of Scotland’s best fighters and that’s a real honour and motivation for me to do this.

“I’m in this game to be the best, fight the best and leave my mark in boxing history.

“I’ve trained so hard for this fight and been away from home for about six months. I’ve dedicated my whole adult life to the sport for this moment in time.

“I’m so confident because I know I’ve done everything right and to the best of my ability. I can’t wait to get in the ring.

“It’s the same for Jose and it makes it a massive fight for boxing. It’s a great match-up.”

Taylor knows that he won’t face an easy task when he steps into the ring against Ramirez, who has won all 26 of his professional fights with 17 wins coming by knockout. The Scot said that he had been aware of his opponent for a number of years and was more than aware of his ability and strengths.

“I respect every fighter that jumps in the ring,” he said. “You’ve got to respect Jose Ramirez.

“He’s 26-0, he’s a unified champion and he’s beat everyone that’s been in front of him.

“You don’t become unified champion without being a good fighter. I highly respect the man. He’s a great champion and a great person.

“But on Saturday night as soon as that first bell goes, it’s all out the window.”