"I am just not sure how someone who considers himself one of the best pound for pound even thinks about fights like this."

Junior Witter has responded with indignation to suggestions on BoxingTalk.net that Floyd Mayweather Junior will face Lovemore N'dou, Stevie Johnston or Muhamat Abdulaev on his upcoming HBO date.

"Floyd is letting himself down by considering opponents of this calibre," began Junior.

"I don't like to say I told you so, but I predicted he might when, earlier this month, I offered to step up and face him on January 22nd.

"He is also letting down fight fans and HBO; I am surprised they are even considering showing him against one of these three.

"Lovemore N'dou is nothing but a solid yet limited loser; he has been beaten in two of his last five fights.

"Stevie Johnston is a blown up lightweight who hasn't fought for a year since he got put down three times and stopped.

"And as for Muhamat Abdulaev, well you can go to sleep on his record it is so padded.  Plus Emmanuel Clottey knocked him out four fights ago.

"I am just not sure how someone who considers himself one of the best pound for pound even thinks about fights like this."

"Especially when I have thrown my hat in the ring."

Witter added: "It seems that Floyd has suddenly turned a bit shy. I know for a fact he heard my challenge to him, but it seems he is even scared to look in my direction.

"It's obvious to me that he doesn't want to risk a big pay-day against Gatti by getting in the ring with a European champion who has taken out his last fifteen opponents.

"He knows I can knock him out.

"But that isn't the mark of a true champion, it's the mark of someone who doubts their own ability."