'It makes for a better story': Aussie underdog Sam Goodman reacts to insane title fight odds
Australian star Sam Goodman hopes to "stick one up" the doubters when he takes on arguably the best boxer on the planet on Christmas Eve.
The undefeated 26-year-old will take on Naoya Inoue for a shot at the undisputed super-bantamweight world title next month, heading into enemy territory in Tokyo.
Inoue (29-0) has cleared out the division in recent years, producing countless knockout victories en route to establishing himself as "The Monster" of the sport.
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Speaking on 2GB's Wide World Of Sports Radio, Goodman opened up on taking the toughest fight out there and his plans to bring the gold back home.
Sam Goodman is eyeing off a major upset. Getty
"It's the biggest challenge of my life, but one I'm ready to take with both hands," he said.
"I've worked all my life since I was a young boy to be in this spot and to not just be here, but to win these belts and bring them back home to Australia.
"I wouldn't say it's daunting at all - I have wanted to be in these fights since I got involved with the sport and it's something I've set out to do.
"I never got into this sport to just compete … I got into this sport to be an undisputed world champion. I'm going over there and won't be leaving Tokyo without those belts."
Goodman has won all 19 of his fights to date, but has never competed outside of Australia and will be a massive underdog against Inoue.
The bookies have installed Goodman as an incredible $14 outsider for the fight, with Inoue at unbackable $1.04 odds with just over a month until they step in the ring.
"It's something I haven't really looked into - but it makes for a better story at the end of it once I get the job done," Goodman said.
Sam Goodman has locked in a world title fight with Naoya Inoue. Getty
"I'm not looking at odds or people writing me off or critics saying that I can't do it. I've got full belief in myself and what I can do.
"It's not a motivating factor towards why I want to do this, it's a goal I've set since I was a 10-year-old kid getting involved in boxing.
"I will just get to stick one up them at the end of the day and prove them all wrong."
The fight will take place in the middle of the festive season and Goodman will take a large crew with him to Japan for the biggest moment of his career.
And if he can cause the upset, Goodman knows just how sweet the victory will be.
"It will be great once I can celebrate with all my friends and family," he said.
"It will be the ultimate Christmas present."
