Ashie, alias Red Tiger (28-4-1, 20 KOs), believes his defence will be tough, hence his decision to train harder to ensure he comes out successful against an opponent likely to be chosen from the WBO ratings.

The Ghanaian, who recently earned a majority decision over South Africa’s Michael Mokoena to win the WBO continental title, signed a three-year management deal with a Dubai-based leading boxing management firm, MTK Global, after his victory.

In an interview with the Graphic Sports, Ashie, ranked 15th in the latest WBO ranking, said with his new managers behind him, he was ready to add his name to Ghana’s list of world champions.

“I am working hard to defend my title in August and I believe it will be very tough because the opponent will have to come from the ratings.

“With the kind of training I’m going through, I believe I will definitely defend my title successfully when the time comes in August,” he said.

Ashie, however, noted that his dream had always been to become a world champion and he believes the time is ripe to achieve that with MTK Global coming on board.

When asked about his plans after joining MTK Global, the Red Tiger stated that he was sure about his chances of getting to the top following discussions with the international consultant of the firm, Mike Altamura, hence his decision to join their stable which already has notable global boxing icons such as Tyson Fury, Billy Joe Saunders, Carl Frampton, Michael Conlan, Liam Smith, UFC star Darren Till and others, numbering over 150 athletes.

“When I spoke to Altamura, he had so many plans for me and from what he told me, I believe I have a great future in the sport and will surely achieve my aim by becoming a world champion,” Ashie assured.