Maidana 'ready to make history' against Mayweather

Mayweather won the first bout in May on a controversial split decision, with post-fight reaction prompting the speedy re-match.

And Maidana believes that this time he can finish the job and inflict a first career defeat on the WBC and WBA welterweight champion.

"I just know that I have to win. I'm focused on winning. I am going to take out any doubts in my mind about the first fight. I've adjusted now and I think I'll be ready," Maidana said.

"I haven't talked to Carlos Rios or Carlos Baldomir about their Mayweather fights but I have watched their fights. I noticed that being aggressive and attacking him is what makes him uncomfortable.

"I think I did get tired in the first fight. I have to pace myself a little better and this time around I will be better.

[LINK: Maidana agrees to bet entire purse on beating Mayweather]

"If the knockout comes great, but I'm ready to go the distance as well. I'm ready to make history.

"I have to use my distance a little more and pick and choose my punches. I wasted too many punches last fight. I have to work my distance correctly and get leverage.

"I think Floyd got pressured by the press and I think that he knows the first fight was close so he's giving me the rematch and I have to take full advantage.

"I actually had two full months to prepare this time. I worked very hard and that's probably why I look a little skinnier this time.

"I think Floyd is going to run but I'm going to have to do a good job of cutting off the ring."

Mayweather spoke respectfully of his Argentine opponent - but suggested that his experience will carry him to victory.

"I'm going to be Floyd Mayweather and do what I do best and come out and win. I've been here before and I know what it takes to win at this level," he said.

"We put it all on the line in the first fight. The fans demanded the rematch so we owe it to them to put it all on the line again. Maidana's rugged. He's a cool fighter and we'll see how it plays out on Saturday.

"I have to focus on my fight. I can't focus on anything else going on, I have a tough fighter in front me and he needs all my focus.

"We've had a remarkable training camp. Truly unbelievable. I feel a lot stronger than last time. It's about hard work, dedication, prayers, belief and a good team.

"I know I'm almost 40, but I'm still going strong. I want to go out there and perform.

"The first fight was very interesting. Hopefully this time around the fight is even more exciting.

"Maidana is always in top shape. He absolutely deserves this rematch. I commend him for stepping up and making it happen again. I'm a true champion and a true champion never backs down.

"I need a knockout and I'm going for it. I need it to make a statement. First for myself, I want to do it for me…

"I don't know who has the advantage in the rematch. I know I'm sharp, I know he's sharp. I was able to make the adjustments in the first fight and we'll see if he can make the adjustments this time."