David Morrell says he expects to be fully prepared for Zak Chelli when the two light heavyweights meet in Manchester tonight.
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Morrell admitted he wasn’t too familiar with Chelli before the fight went down, but the Cuban contender says his team quickly began studying footage and highlights once the bout became official.
Morrell studies Chelli
“We became familiar with him as soon as his name was mentioned as a possible opponent,” Morrell said Boxing scene.
“We’ve seen some film here and there and watched some highlights, but by the time the fight comes I’ll know every move,” Morrell said.
The former interim champion enters the fight with a record of 12-1 with nine knockouts. Morrell remains one of the more experienced contenders at light heavyweight, despite only having 13 professional fights.
His only loss came against David Benavidez last year, but Morrell believes the tough fights early in his career accelerated his development.
“I was not taken out of the fire”
“I am one hundred percent happy with the way my career has moved.
“In my third fight I was fighting for the WBA title, and by my 11th fight I was fighting Benavidez. I haven’t been taken out of the fire yet,” Morrell said.
Morrell also pointed to the lessons he learned while adjusting to the light heavyweight division against experienced opposition.
Lessons at 175
“The first thing was to adjust to the weight at 175.
“Then also, coming out of those fights, I learned how important it was to stay focused to fight at that level. The focus throughout the fight is important, staying cool, sticking to your game plan and not getting into your emotions,” Morrell said.
Tonight’s fight gives Morrell another chance to build momentum in the division as he pursues his first extended fight in the United Kingdom. A win tonight would quickly move Morrell closer to another significant lightweight fight.
Last updated on 2026/05/09 at 13:48
