Michael Pirotton has issued a blunt warning to Johnny Fisher as the two heavyweights prepare to clash on September 26 at London’s Copper Box Arena, an event that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. The Belgian fighter, who has endured a rocky career path, is traveling from Belgium to face the well‑known British puncher, and he wants everyone to understand that underestimating him would be a grave mistake. Pirotton is fully aware that many observers will view him as a long‑shot.
He has suffered two defeats in his professional record, and Fisher’s name carries considerable weight in the heavyweight division. Yet, Pirotton insists his journey has been fundamentally different from the polished, promotional machine that surrounds Fisher. "I’m the exact opposite," he told Sky Sports. "He has the best promotion, the best trainers from day one, and everything that comes with that.
I’ve been doing it my own way since the start, and I’ve had to slog through the dirty side of this business." The Belgian fighter stresses that dismissing him simply because of his lower profile would be a perilous error. Fisher, for his part, is not invincible.
He has not secured a victory on UK soil in more than two years, having struggled against Dave Allen and then being stopped in a rematch with the same opponent. In his most recent bout against Ivan Balaz in December, Fisher appeared to be clipped and perhaps a little off‑balance, suggesting that cracks in his armor may already be forming. Pirotton, however, boasts a record that has never seen him knocked down or stopped.
"I took two losses, and I know those setbacks were crucial in shaping the man I am today," he explained. "Those defeats didn’t happen inside the ring; they were outside circumstances that forced me to grow. If I hadn’t faced those challenges, I might not have the confidence I have now." Looking ahead to the September 26 showdown, Pirotton believes his mental resilience will give him the edge. "I think that’s how I’ll win on the 26th – because I know his mind is broken and he’s under too much pressure," he said.
"He can act tough and cocky, but he’s never been through what I’ve been through. I’ve been broken, broken again, and I keep getting back up. I’m still standing, and I know people don’t know me.
It would be naive for a guy like me to think they won’t make fun of me." The Belgian fighter has also been the target of online taunts, even prompting him to look up the name of a hay‑fever medication called Piriton after fans made jokes about his surname. "I’ve had to accept fights when I wasn’t ready or barely training because I needed to work," Pirotton said, noting that bookmakers currently list him at roughly 7/1 to win. "Some of us are plumbers, some of us are doormen.
I’ve been working as a doorman at night and training during the day. People make fun of you, but that’s the price I pay to keep chasing the dream." Pirotton believes the key to defeating Fisher lies in out‑thinking him. "The way to beat Johnny is to outsmart him.
People don’t rate my boxing IQ because I’ve never had the chance to showcase it properly, except in a few fights and sparring sessions," he admitted. "I’ve never been on such a big stage, but I know my quality. I’m ready to embrace the moment, be myself, and risk everything." He also addressed his working‑class supporters directly.
"For all the plumbers out there, just bet on me. I see great odds… This is for you!" he shouted, rallying those who share his humble background. Beyond the personal anecdotes, Pirotton’s preparation reflects a gritty, self‑made approach.
He balances a night shift as a doorman with daytime training sessions, a routine that leaves little room for error but builds an iron‑clad work ethic. Unlike many fighters who benefit from lavish sponsorships and state‑of‑the‑art facilities, Pirotton relies on sheer determination, improvising equipment when needed and learning from every sparring partner, regardless of their reputation.
In contrast, Fisher’s recent performances suggest a fighter who may be feeling the strain of expectations. His loss‑free streak in the UK has stalled, and his bout with Balaz showed moments of vulnerability that could be exploited by a savvy opponent. Fisher’s camp, known for its high‑tech analysis and elite coaching staff, will likely emphasize speed and power, but Pirotton’s claim that Fisher’s mental state is fragile could become a strategic focal point.
The upcoming match, therefore, pits two very different narratives against each other: a polished, marketable star versus a rugged underdog who has fought his way up from night‑shift jobs and personal setbacks. The Copper Box Arena will host a clash that goes beyond physical strength; it will test psychological fortitude, strategic acumen, and the ability to thrive under pressure.
As the fight date approaches, fans can tune in to Sky Sports on September 26 to watch the showdown live. Whether Pirotton’s gritty resolve and unconventional path will be enough to topple the more celebrated Fisher remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Belgian heavyweight is entering the ring with a clear message – underestimate him at your own peril, because he believes his brokenness has forged a stronger, more determined fighter ready to seize his moment on the biggest stage of his career.