A knockout night for either David Price or Kash Ali – trainer’s prediction

That is the prediction of Ali's trainer and manager Adam Etches who is convinced one of them will be KO'd when the pair meet in a scheduled 10-rounder at Echo Arena, Liverpool, on March 30.

Rotherham's unbeaten Ali (W14-L0) comes up against the more seasoned Price, delighted to have the chance to finally start etching his name on the domestic division after a slow-burning career.

"Kash is ready for this, he has held his own sparring with quality heavyweights like Dillian Whyte and now it is time to let him off the leash,” said Etches.

"Kash was over the moon when the fight was first mentioned, there is no doubt in his mind or mine that he can win this.

"It is going to be exciting as both guys know how to punch and this is not going to go an official’s decision; someone is getting knocked out."

Despite 6ft 8ins Price's superior CV, he's been in with the likes of Sergey Kuzmin, Alexander Povetkin and Christian Hammer in the last couple of years, Etches doesn't recognise his man as an underdog.

"Kash doesn't know how to get beat and we're not intending to find out” he said. "I think Kash beats him in every department: speed, fitness, chin, jab, workrate, whatever

"David has got power and size but that, and the fact the fight is in his home city, won't be an issue for Kash."

Price, 35, believes he can overcome the 27-year-old challenger.

"“Kash Ali has stepped up to put his undefeated record on the line so he obviously fancies his chances,” said Price. “We know each other quite well but I’m looking to get rid of him in style to show everyone that I mean business. It’ll be great to get another win in front of my home crowd next month. 

“We sparred a lot of rounds at Dave Coldwell’s gym, so I know what he’s all about. He’s young and hungry and he’s a very dangerous fighter. This is the kind of opponent that I needed, someone to get me up for a fight. He’ll be coming for my scalp, but I’ve got big plans for 2019 and he won’t be getting in the way of them. 

“The heavyweight landscape is always changing and you need to be ready to take your chances. There’s a lot of big names in the division who all need dance partners and there’s no reason I can’t throw my name back in the mix with a couple more wins.