• Light heavyweight

Hawk steps in to face Cleverly in LA

ESPN staff
November 5, 2012
Nathan Cleverly is looking to make his mark on his US debut © PA Photos
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Nathan Cleverly will defend his WBO light-heavyweight belt against Shawn Hawk on Saturday after the American stepped in at short notice to replace Ryan Coyne.

Cleverly's clash against Coyne was called off due to contractual problems leaving the unbeaten Welshman without an opponent for his fight in Los Angeles.

"He has a good record with a high KO ratio," Cleverly said. "So he's a big puncher and I won't treat him lightly because I can't get careless or reckless. He has a big opportunity by coming in late for a world title bid. He has nothing to lose.

"He is dangerous but I will be on my guard….I will be aiming to look good and will definitely be trying to take him out. I will look at about three minutes of Hawk on You Tube. That is all I need to see what he's all about."

Cleverly admits Hawk, who is 23-2-1 with 17 knockouts, could pose him a problem, with the American of orthodox stance, having sparred with southpaw fighters to prepare for Coyne.

"If I go on my fighting instincts I should be fine on fight night," he said. "I should be able to do the business. I got to the stage where I didn't care anymore who I was fighting. I decided I was ready to come here and fight whoever it is."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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