Boxing: Fight at Liverpool ‘like being Virgil van Dijk at Anfield’ – Natasha Jonas

Jonas will defend his title at home, the third time he has had the chance to fight for the world title in front of his fellow Liverpudlians.

Croatia Habazin was in the ring with a number of bright names including Terri Harper, Claressa Shields and Cecilia Braekhus, although she lost to each of them.

The 35-year-old will be an underdog against Jonas, who says playing at Liverpool is like “being Virgil van Dijk and playing against AC Milan at Anfield on a European night”.

“(Habazin) has experience, he’s not coming just to make up the numbers. He’s coming to fight and try to take my titles,” Jonas added.

“He’s got good fundamentals, a good jab and good footwork, but everything he does, I think I’m better at.

“I always get it into my head (fighting in Liverpool) that it’s just another fight because you can buckle down, you can resist the pressure of performing in front of your friends, your family and your city.

“(But) it’s huge. When the going gets tough, when the going gets tough and you need inspiration and drive and motivation, the fans bring it for you.”