Shakhobidin Zoirov: I have the confidence of being an Olympic champion and a great belief in my ability

The 2016 Olympic champion kicks off his career in the paid ranks with high expectations as he faces Anthony Holt on the stacked #DXBUncovered show at Emirates Golf Club – live on ESPN+ and iFL TV.

Rather than feel under pressure, Zoirov welcomes the extra scrutiny that comes with being tagged as a blue chip prospect.

Zoirov said: “As Olympic champion, I feel my role in events like this is extra important. Expectations are high but I plan to meet all of them and achieve my own goals too.

“I enjoyed my time as an amateur and will always look back on my achievements with pride but the time as come for me to start making noise in the professional game.

“It really doesn’t matter who is across from me in that ring on Friday or any other time. I have the confidence of being an Olympic champion and a great belief in my ability.

“I saw my great friend Hurshid Tojibaev make his debut with a stoppage victory the other night and I hope to put on a show like that for the fans in Dubai.”