Super Six World Boxing Classic Semifinalists Andre Ward and Arthur Abraham participated in a press conference to formally announce their May 14 showdown in Carson, U.S., fightnews.com reported.

Ward will defend his WBA Super Middleweight title against the European superstar and former world champion to kick off the Semifinals of the groundbreaking tournament.

“I’m fired up as always. I’m not buying into people saying that Abraham is not the same. I know Arthur and his team are preparing for a storybook ending but it won’t be at my expense. I’m ready to defend my title,” Ward said.

“It’s the same story every time – people doubting me and asking if I’m ready. I think people forget that I have a family to feed. I need to win just as badly as anyone else. I have two more fights before I’m the best super middleweight in the world and I plan on winning both of them. It’s as simple as that.”

“In my preparation I’m probably giving him more respect than he deserves. My job is to put him away from the opening bell. My job is to make him feel the same way he felt right after the Carl Froch fight as soon as possible.”

“On May 14 we have 12 rounds to get to know each other. That’s what I’m looking forward to,” Ward said.