Tarver calls for Calzaghe bout

IBF light-heavyweight world champion Antonio Tarver has insisted he is the opponent Joe Calzaghe must face if the Welshman wants to cement his legacy as one of boxing's all-time greats.

Tarver has joined Roy Jones in offering to tackle Calzaghe on either side of the Atlantic and, although the Jones fight currently looks the more likely, Tarver believes a fight with him would be far more meaningful.

He said in a statement: "I am the only light-heavyweight champion who currently holds two belts and on my way to unifying the belts this year. I will fight Calzaghe in the US, in the UK or wherever he wants to fight."

He added: "Everyone was mentioned as Calzaghe's potential next opponent but me, the true light-heavyweight world champion."

Referring to Calzaghe's post-fight boast after beating Bernard Hopkins - who beat Tarver in 2006 - Tarver continued: "I am the real 'legend killer'. I beat Roy Jones not once but twice.

"I have also beaten Glen Johnson, Clinton Woods and many more top fighters in the light-heavyweight division."

Calzaghe, 36, will probably fight once more before retiring and is understandably keen to ensure it is a fitting farewell.

And a rematch with Hopkins, whom he beat via split decision on Saturday, does not tick that box.

Undisputed middleweight king Kelly Pavlik and WBC champion Chad Dawson have also been mooted as options when Calzaghe returns to the ring.