Marcos Maidana was very confident heading into his bout with Adrien Broner in December of 2013, and walked away a winner despite being a heavy underdog. He is showing similar confidence heading into his May fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr., and in fact might respect Broner a little more.

Adrien Broner vs. Amir Khan unlikely for May 3?

"I believe that Mayweather is not as strong as Broner. He is a better boxer [than Broner] but I think that he is not as strong," Maidana said. "I believe that, because [during our fight] Broner felt very strong and I do not see Mayweather being [strong] like that."

Maidana was able to defeat Broner by overwhelming him with activity, and even though Mayweather is a master tactician it seems "El Chino" is taking a similar approach come May 3.

"I want to beat him. Canelo Alvarez did not go after him. He didn't do anything and allowed [Mayweather] to work. I always go out to press my rival, to corner him and to unload my punches, and with Mayweather I am going to do the same."

Maidana also noted Floyd's tendency to dodge and counterpunch off the ropes, and said that will be a mistake this time around. "Also, Mayweather often goes against the ropes and that's where he's in danger [of getting hit with punches]."

Finally, Maidana said his mental strength is at a level where he can combat Floyd, whereas other fighters crumble in his wake. "I am going to train well, I am going to go out there and fight without fear and without respecting him. There are many boxers that when they are in the ring with Floyd, they are afraid. He is not going to intimidate me."

Does Maidana have a chance at upsetting Money? Tell us @SportsWN