Arslanbek Makhmudov insists his experience of wrestling a bear will prove invaluable for the defining moment of his career against Tyson Fury.
The Dagestani brawler faces Fury at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday and comes with a reputation for using unconventional training methods, which include being hit with sledgehammers to strengthen his abs and cold plunges in freezing water.
But his most extraordinary act is going toe to toe with a 9 foot 8 inches, 66 stones bear in woods outside of Moscow nearly two years ago – an encounter that taught him to confront fear.
“It was very terrible. Not just scary, but really crazy terrible,” Makhmudov told the Press Association.
“Since I was a kid I have liked a challenge, that’s why I did that just to test myself to see how I would feel in that crazy situation.
“You only understand its strength when you’re close to it. In one second you can become like meat, just meat, just like that.
“It’s not comparable with human stuff. It’s like a natural disaster, I cannot explain it, it’s crazy.
“It is good preparation for boxing because you have to control your emotions and your fear. You have to beat your fear, beat your phobias. For that it was good, but one time is enough!”
Makhmudov has inflicted 19 knockouts in 21 wins and that punching power is the biggest threat to Fury as the Canada-based 36-year-old looks to make his mark on the heavyweight division.
“When I was a kid I fought on the streets a lot. From six or seven years old I was fighting bigger or older guys,” Makhmudov said.
“If I punched someone hard, then I could see on his face that he was finished. So I knew from young that if I punch someone hard, he won’t fight me any more.
“All my life I’ve been fighting. I recognise myself as a fighter. Of course, even in the streets sometimes I lost, but I became stronger.
“That’s why I think I have enough experience for Tyson Fury, because my life has prepared me for this moment.
“This is the biggest opportunity in my career. I like to be in this position where people are underestimating me. I’m going to upset everyone.
“Tyson Fury is a legend, one of the best heavyweights in history. He’s a big name. But if I want to be the best, I have to beat the best.
“I will enjoy this fight. I will enjoy every moment. I will enjoy my win.”
