WORLD middleweight title contender Martin Murray says the past three weeks of gruelling altitude training in Johannesburg is just the preparation he needs ahead of next month's challenge in Monte Carlo.

The Fingerpost fighter, who is halfway through an intensive camp in South Africa, tackles the unbeaten Gennady Golovkin on February 21 for the WBA and IBO middleweight belts.

Murray is not fazed by the formidable challenge that awaits him, but ignores punditry that says he cannot take the crown from the big-punching Kazakh king of the middleweight division.

Murray said: “It’s a tough fight, I’m under no illusions. Golovkin is a punching power machine, but I have the tools to beat him. I expect it will be tough and I’ll need to go through pain, but I’m prepared for that, whatever it takes.”

Having spent the past three weeks training in South Africa, Murray is satisfied that he is leaving nothing to chance. He trains three times daily in the summer heat, pushing himself beyond normal limits at high altitude.

“It’s about getting to the 21st of February and having no regrets. I’m doing everything to be in the best possible condition. I’m gonna do it. A lot of things brought me to this world title. I’m doing it for myself, for my family. When I signed with Golden Gloves, this was the end deal: a massive fight. I’m coming off some good wins and I feel I’m ready.

“Golovkin has two hands like me, but he’s not unbeatable. I’m certainly not going to get into the ring fearing him. Never," he said.

Murray has been using former welterweight title challenger Harold Volbrecht’s gym on the eastern side of Johannesburg. Volbrecht, who used to train Brian Mitchell and Corrie Sanders, likes what he sees.

“Martin is very underrated. It’s good to go in as the underdog. He’s the consummate pro and will leave nothing to chance. I don’t rate Golovkin technically, but he’s very strong. A lot of people may be in for a surprise come February 21," he said.