Savannah Marshall believes that Maria Lindberg will be a much more difficult test than original opponent Femke Hermans when they meet for the WBO middleweight title this weekend. The fight takes place on the undercard of Conor Benn’s clash with Samuel Vargas at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday, live on Sky Sports and DAZN. Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) was originally due to defend her title against Hermans before she forced to withdraw after a member of her team tested positive for the coronavirus, and she feels that Lindberg (19-6-2, 10 KOs) will be a harder battle. Marshall said: “I think this is a tougher fight than the original fight. Maria is very experienced and tough. She’s been in with some of the best in the world. She’s a four-time world title challenger, but I’ve had a twelve-week camp so I’ve prepared for everything. Whatever Maria brings I’m more than confident I’ve got an answer for."

 

Marshall continued. “If I win here then there is the Claressa Shields fight. Every boxer dreams to be undisputed champion. I do believe that is the biggest fight in female boxing. No disrespect to Maria though as I can’t look past her.”

 

Lindberg added: “I’m always in training so I’m prepared. This is a new experience than me, I’ve never taken a fight with this short notice but there is a first time for everything. I’m excited and I’m looking forward to Saturday. I’m more seasoned as a professional. I’ve had many title fights and the experience is on my side and I am going to make it hard for her on Saturday.”