Johannesburg (South Africa) – Martin ‘The Punisher’ van Staden faces Nigeria born Ireland based Henry ‘Herculeez’ Fadipe in a welterweight bout on August 15. Last week the Irishman accused the Punisher of having no respect for himself as an athlete, and went on to say that he would be using Van Staden merely as a scapegoat or stepping stone on his climb up the division ladder. Today the Punisher responds.

“I don’t know how I’m being arrogant,” said Van Staden in a recent interview. “I never said anything about the guy other than I thought he’s explosive. I’d say he’s being arrogant. I’d say he’s looking to hype things, maybe to cover his own feelings. Maybe he realizes I’m no joke, maybe he’s trying to convince himself.”

“He was talking about how he and Maphutha respected each other which affected their fight. When I’m in there I’m not thinking about the other guy’s skills, I’m there to throw down. I’m in there to break, hurt, do damage. There’s no love lost. When the door closes it’s time to throw down.”

“This kid’s 21 years old. He’s had 10 fights, I’m going for my 28th. He’s got skills, sure. He’s open, loose and wild and he’s got a good ground game. I like that. It suits me. But he’s young. Who’s he fought? I’ve fought everyone. I don’t know the guys he’s fought.”

“He’s pissed me off now. I’m going to stamp his passport for him, send him back home. I’ve also got a lot to prove. I’m getting back to my old ways. I’m going in there not to be technical, I’m going in there to fight. I’m going in there to finish him as quickly as possible.”

“Nobody’s put me away, ever. He’s talking about finishing me? Listen, I’ve got heavy hands. If I tag anyone it’s a KO or they at least sitting on their ass. Does he know what he’s in for? I’ll put him to sleep. I’m looking to hurt him viciously, badly, I’m out there to prove a point. If I’m his scapegoat, which I’m not really sure what that means, then he’s my sacrificial lamb. I’m going to slaughter this guy. Basically, I’m going to fuck him up. That’s the reality of the situation.”

EFC AFRICA 22, presented by MusclePharm, takes place at the Carnival City Big Top Arena on 15 August 2013. Tickets on sale now at www.computicket.com. Tickets for the live broadcast to Nu Metro Cinemas available soon at www.numetro.com.

Broadcast information and full fight card available at efcafrica.com