British lightweight Anthony Crolla has revealed that he feels mentally stronger than at any point in his career.
Late last year, Crolla suffered a fractured skull and broken ankle after confronting two burglars, injuries that resulted in a world title fight with Richar Abril being postponed.
However, eight months after the incident, Crolla is preparing to face WBA champion Darleys Perez at the Manchester Arena on Saturday night, and the former British title holder is confident that he can find a way to overcome the Colombian.
The 28-year-old told ESPN: "I'm confident I will find a way to win. Without a doubt, I need a career-best performance to win this title, but I'm confident I can do it.
"Mentally, I'm much stronger than I have ever been and it's also in Manchester, which will help me, because the crowd will get behind me and push me.
"I think Jorge Linares is a class act, maybe the number one in the division, but I put Perez up there with any of the other world champions."
Earlier this month, Crolla spoke to Sports Mole about his rehabilitation and preparation ahead of facing Perez.
Darren Plant
