Russian Beterbiev, 33, was a decorated amateur and has knocked out 12 opponents from 12 as a pro. It is a formidable challenge and the Montreal-based fighter starts as short as 1-12 with some bookmakers.
His opponent, though, is unfazed.
“I’ve been written off since I was a 16-year-old kid,” says Johnson, who stunningly upset the odds last time out, when he snatched the British title from the respected Frank Buglioni in just 90 seconds.
That said, in looking ahead to this weekend’s fight he is pensive, his answers sincere and considerate.
“At this stage, late on in camp, you’re thinking about the fight all the time. What could be? What will be? You visualise things in your head, winning, things that may work.
“You really have to try to knock out any negative thoughts, so it’s all positive stuff from now on. The bad things do creep in too. The key is to be as positive as you can.
“The win against Frank really showed people in British boxing what I’m capable of doing. Those around me spoke of what I was capable of but I suppose not many had seen it. It was nice to show it was the truth.
“I know I am up against it and I know I’m an underdog. But on my day, I can knock out anyone in the world, so let’s hope it’s my day.”
Sat on the ring-edge he explains his boxing journey is yet to yield the money required to make his future comfortable.
A win in the Windy City would be a likely gateway to lucrative opportunities. Johnson is an underdog eyeing the chance to change his life. This sport is full of them.
But this time around, there is a deeper meaning than purses, splits and status. This is the ultimate bout for dad.
“It would put a perfect ending to a bad story,” says Johnson. “I could forever live in peace and that’s what I intend to do for him.”
