Crolla’s ‘date with destiny’

ANTHONY CROLLA: world champ in waiting?

CHADDERTON’s Anthony Crolla reckons his winning the world championship at the Manchester Arena next week is “meant to be”.

Crolla (28) takes on WBA world lightweight title holder Darleys Perez on Saturday, July 18, at the arena. Now only 10 days from his dream first world title shot, he is stronger and better than ever following his long lay-off after injuries received trying to fight off burglars at a neighbour’s home last year

Crolla told the Chronicle: “It’s a date with destiny, definitely. July 18 is a date and a night I’ve dreamed about since being a little kid, lacing up my first pair of gloves. I’ve got this major opportunity to make the dream come true now, it’s just meant to be, in my opinion.

“Everybody gets nervous, but the nerves I feel are just for my family, friends and the Manchester people,” added Crolla.

“I just want to do them proud next week — that’s it really.

“I’ll have an hour to myself during the afternoon of the fight where I’ll just go through everything in my head, and there will be a few butterflies then, but once I get to the arena I’ll be alright.

“It has been a mad response from everyone, it’s been huge. Winning that title will be a perfect way to thank the supporters, though. I know I’ll need a career-best performance next week, but I believe I can produce that.

“Then the crowd will help me. They’ll give me that crucial edge that will hopefully be enough to see me through.”