Deontay Wilder has set his sights on becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world and has vowed that 2016 will be his year.
The unbeaten American will defend his WBC crown for the third time when he faces Poland's Artur Szpilka at the Barclays Center in New York on January 16.
The 30-year-old expects to brush Szpilka aside in his 36th professional bout and he then wants to face the winner of the rematch between WBA and WBO champion Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko.
"I'm knocking out Szpilka and I'm sending a message to everyone who stands in my way," said Wilder.
"I'm looking for a grand show. It's going to be a great performance to kick off 2016. This is going to be a huge year for me.
"Once I knock Szpilka out, I want all the Polish fans to come on the 'Bronze Bomber' train as I bring the heavyweight division back to the top.
"I'm the guy who has everything it takes to be heavyweight champion of the world. It's not just about being great inside the ring, it's about being able to do great things outside of the ring. Not everyone has that. I love to be out there with the people."
Szpilka has won 20 of his 21 fights - his only defeat was to American Bryant Jennings in January 2014 - and intends to cause a shock in his first world title bout.
"I wanted this fight. This is my time," the 26-year-old said. "The heavyweight titles are wide open. There's new blood for boxing."
Then addressing Wilder directly, the Pole added: "I hope that you hear loud and clear, I can win this fight. My mind is ready, my body is ready. You're done January 16."