‘It’s all a front’ – Jono Carroll questions Tevin Farmer’s confidence

Jono Carroll [16(3)-0-1] suggests he had Tevin Farmer [28(6)-4(2)-1] sweating so much that, when the pair met in person for the first time, that the ‘mask’ began to slip.

After over six months of Twitter spats, ‘King Kong’ finally got to come face to face with the man he challenges for the IBF super featherweight world title in Philadelphia on March 15 at a press conference last month.

The southpaw has drawn confidence from the pair’s verbal jousting, suggesting it proves the champion has none.

The slick operator, who holds a win over Belfast’s James Tennyson, isn’t as confident as he makes out, claims Carroll.

Indeed, the Matchroom fighter feels it’s all a front and a front he exposed during a fractious presser.

“Tevin didn’t know what to do when I put it on him and started stuttering and repeating himself,” said Carroll.

“I don’t think he’s truly confident. I think it’s all just a front.”

‘American Idol’ Farmer, who has been keen to point out he chose Carroll as his next opponent to see if he could back up some big talk, makes the third defence of his IBF crown in his hometown.

It’s been hailed as a massive advantage for the champion, but Carroll doesn’t see it that way.

One of the best talkers in Irish boxing not only believes venue is irrelevant to him, but believes the homecoming element puts extra pressure on the champ.

“I couldn’t care less where I fight in the world. All the location does is put even more pressure on him.”

“A man who has a lot has a lot to lose. I’ve nothing to lose and everything to gain so mentally, this is an easy night for me.”

“This is just another day in the office for me. This is what I always said I was going to do so I’m not surprised to be here now. I believe this is my destiny.”