Jamie Conlan has reiterated his belief that he will beat Paul Butler if and when the super-flyweight rivals clash.
Last month Ellesmere Port's Butler told Irishman Conlan and his team to 'stop talking' about a possible fight and make it happen.
Butler, now teamed with Oliver Harrison after leaving long-time trainer Anthony 'Arnie' Farnell , has won his last three fights and with both he and Conlan well ranked, the winner would be in prime position to challenge for a world title.
Belfast-based Conlan, undefeated from 15 contests, is a former WBO European champion and holds the WBO Intercontinental belt.
He meets Anthony Nelson for the Commonwealth championship on April 30 at the Copper Box Arena in London but a blockbuster showdown with Butler remains on his wishlist.
"It’s a fight that has to happen," said the 29-year-old.
"We both want it and it’s a fight that makes sense. I’ve always seen myself as the winner; I believe in my ability."
Conlan was ringside at Liverpool's Echo Arena last month to witness Butler beat Mexico’s Sebastian Sanchez inside nine rounds to claim the vacant IBF Intercontinental strap.
Although respectful of the Great Sutton man, Conlan insists he has the measure of Butler.
"He’s a great fighter and you don’t become a world champion for no reason but I 100% believe in everything I do and I believe that I’ll have an answer for everything he brings," said Conlan.
“I see myself winning. I don’t know how it’ll go I just know I’m the better man. Everything he does I can do better and he won’t have an answer for the things I bring."
Following his win against Sanchez, Butler made it clear he wanted to step into the ring with Conlan sooner rather than later.
“We want it, they talk about it. There’s a big difference,” said the 27-year-old.
“Stop talking about it and want it, there’s a final eliminator there and the winner goes on to fight for a world title so if he believes he can win it let’s get it on.
“He’s a nice lad and he’s got a top team around him but it’s been talked about for long enough now.”
In pictures: Paul Butler's boxing career
