This is an opportunity to become a world champion in front of my fans, my friends and family. It's a dream come true.
Boxer Josh Taylor plans to smoke out Ivan Baranchyk after turning to cannabis oil to finally find his inner calm.
Josh is preparing for the biggest night of his life on Saturday as he fights for the Belarussian’s IBF world super-lightweight title in Glasgow.
The SSE Hydro clash – which doubles as the World Boxing Super Series’ semi-final – will put the Scots’ temperament to the test like never before as he looks to complete his boyhood ambition of becoming world champion. Former Cyclone Promotions stablemate George Groves revealed earlier this week how he would often wake during the night to find energetic Taylor shadow boxing.
The 28-year-old, though, says he is rested and ready for the undefeated Baranchyk, known as The Beast, after discovering the calming powers of CBD oil.
Taylor, said: “I’m surprisingly laid back. I’m sleeping like a baby, which is probably down to the preparations.
“I’m settled in London, I’m not living out of a suitcase in a hotel but with my girlfriend and dog in the flat. I’m relaxed, focused and super confident. I can’t wait. I’m taking this CBD oil, so maybe that’s why I am so relaxed. Maybe that’s why I’m so chilled out.
“Joking aside, it does help me relax and focus. I’ve always had trouble sleeping at night, being a bit hyper and going over things, but the last few camps I’ve taken that stuff and it’s really helped me.
London may now be his permanent base but Scotland will always be home and Taylor hopes the surge of pride he gets returning north of the border can take him to victory this weekend.
He said: “It’s always great to fight in front of my home fans, especially when it’s the biggest fight of my career.
“This is an opportunity to become a world champion in front of my fans, my friends and family. It’s a dream come true.
“Of course, I miss Scotland. I miss the banter and the carry on . The patter is not the same down there.
“But I’m doing what I have to do to focus on my career and give it my best shot.
Source – Edinburgh news