Relaxed Vladimir Nikitin views his showdown with Michael Conlan as another "stepping stone" in his professional boxing journey.
The pair will renew rivalries at Madison Square Garden this Saturday night.
The last time they met saw Nikitin claim a controversial win over Conlan at the 2016 Rio Olympics, after which the Belfast fighter labelled amateur boxing as “corrupt”.
Revenge will be on Conlan's mind going into Saturday's fight, but Nikitin is refusing to get drawn into an emotional duel ahead of he clash.
"I don't have to prove anything to anyone," he said.
"I won two bouts against him in the amateurs and, right now, this is just another big step in my professional career."
Conlan has eased to 12 straight wins in the paid ranks, including seven by way of knockout.
Nikitin's record is more modest, with the Russian having just fought three times as a pro.
His last fight was back in March when he edged past Juan Tapia in a majority decision win.
The 29-year-old insists he won't be fazed by stepping into the ring with Conlan at the famed Madison Square Garden.
"I fought my last fight here at the {Hulu Theater} at Madison Square Garden. I've been in the arena," he said.
"This is the next step in my professional career. I am preparing for every fight {the same}. It doesn't matter.
"I'm ready for 10 rounds. We'll see what will happen in the ring."
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