British featherweight star Zak Miller has delivered a refreshingly candid assessment of his life following a career-defining year, admitting that despite his championship success, not much has changed.
The Champion's Reality Check
The 28-year-old fighter, who clinched the Commonwealth and British featherweight titles earlier this year with a stunning decision win over Masood Abdulah at Manchester's Co-Op Arena, returns to the same venue next month. He will face fellow Brit Liam Davies on the undercard of the Moses Itauma vs. Jermain Franklin event.
Despite the accolades, Miller reveals his expectations of stardom have not yet materialised. "I thought it would change. I thought I would be a superstar by now," Miller told Mirror Fighting. "It’s not changed much, just fulfilled the dream of becoming a British champion." He emphasised a professional mindset, stating, "We are in this career for a short amount of time. Let’s get in there while we can and take the opportunities."
Manchester's Magic and a Domestic Showdown
The Co-Op Arena holds a special significance for Miller, being the site of his greatest triumph. "It’s got to. That was the biggest night of my career," he said, recalling his underdog victory. "It’s a night that I won’t ever forget." He credits that win with altering his career's trajectory, leading to an English title and setting up this pivotal clash with Davies.
This upcoming fight is a major event for the UK featherweight division. Davies, a former champion at bantamweight and super-bantamweight, represents a significant step up. Miller, who vacated the British title but successfully defended his Commonwealth belt against Leon Woodstock in August, is fully focused on derailing Davies's plans for big fights against names like Bruce Carrington and Nick Ball.
Nothing Personal, Just Business
The build-up saw a fiery face-off between the two fighters, but Miller insists there is no genuine animosity. "I have got nothing against him. I do not know him personally enough to have anything against him," he explained, praising Davies as a "fantastic fighter." He views the bout as a pure sporting contest: "This is just another one. We have both had a loss on our career but me and Liam are winners... Nothing personal... the best man is going to win."
When asked how he plans to secure victory, Miller's answer was straightforward and confident. "Because I am going to do the job and I am going to be me," he stated. "Whatever I need to do in that ring on the night to get that win, I am going to do it." He acknowledges the same fierce determination in his opponent, concluding, "If you are not saying the same then you are in the wrong sport."
