The 36-year-old Belarus-born, Brooklyn-based former WBA title-holder goes into the fight as a huge underdog but he said: "I came here to win and I feel very positive about this.

"Erislandy Lara is a great fighter, but me being from the Soviet Union, I'm very familiar with Cuban boxing and have quite a bit of experience with their style, so I'm looking forward to stepping in and showcasing my talents and skills."

Lara has pledged an early knockout in their fight at Miami's Hialeah Park Racing and Casino but ordained rabbi Foreman said: "Being a rabbi, it is sometimes very interesting to mix that with fighting, but Friday night I won't be in rabbi mode. 

"I will be all fighter. We are going to show skills and heart and power."