Jack Catterall says he will not be underestimating Jorge Linares when he steps in with the former multiple world champion in Liverpool this evening.

The Chorley super lightweight will defend his WBA Intercontinental title against the experienced Venezuelan at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena.

While he is hoping victory will be a stepping stone to a shot at another world title, Catterall is preparing to face a fighter who won titles at three different weights rather than one who has been beaten in his last three outings.

“As a fighter, you prepare for the best version of your opponent and prepare for the Linares that’s dropped Lomachenko that’s won these world title fights,” Catterall told Boxing News 24. “I’d be silly not preparing for every fight like it’s a world title fight.”

While Linares has not won in three years, he boasts and impressive and unbeaten record against British fighters with wins over Luke Campbell, Anthony Crolla (twice) and Kevin Mitchell.

A record not lost on Catterall.

“He’s undefeated over here,” said Catterall, nicknamed ‘El Gato’. “The British fans know him well. He’s been over here a number of times, and he’s boxed (Luke) Campbell out in the States. So it’s exciting, and there’s a lot riding on this fight for both of us.

“I expect an explosive Linares. I think he’s going to come and bring it .

“I’ve been following his training, and he looks like he’s bang up for the fight. So, say what you want about three losses; he’s been a professional for 20 years.”

He added: “He’s a three-weight world champion, and he’s a legend of the sport so I’m paying no mind to people who are talking about his last couple of defeats.

“I know that there’s a genuine threat there but I’m looking to come and do it. It just puts me one step closer to these big fights.”

Catterall returns to the ring after dominating Darragh Foley in May, dropping the Australian twice in recording a unanimous points victory.

He is looking to navigate his way back towards a world-title shot after the contentious loss to Josh Taylor in February 2022 where he lost on a split decision when he challenged for the Scotsman’s WBA, WBC, WBO and IBF light-welterweight titles.

A win would see him move a step closer to a title shot against the winner of WBC light welterweight champion Regis Prograis and Devin Haney - although Catterall would love a rematch with Taylor.

“I would love to beat him (Taylor) up again,” he added. “But again, I’ve not had the luxury or the pleasure of having a world title. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on the world title fights, and obviously, that’s something I want to achieve in my career.”