British challenger Tyson Fury has thrown down the gauntlet to the world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko ahead of their fight in Dusseldorf in October by claiming there is no way he will lose to a 40-year-old rival.

The unbeaten giant from Manchester is the mandatory WBA challenger for the world title and is supremely confident as the build up to the fight begins.

“I’m a bigger man than Wladimir in height, weight and natural size. I’m also 13 years younger than him. I’m fresh, I’m hungry, I’m talented and I’m a fighting man,” said Fury.

“There’s no way I’m losing to a 40-year-old. This is my destiny – to become heavyweight champion of the world – and it’s time for the title to change hands.”

The Ukrainian has heard it all before though and fighting someone unbeaten will not faze him as five of his last six opponents were just that until they came up against the champion.

Klitschko has been at the top of the tree for nine years – only the legendary Joe Louis has held the title for longer – and he is looking forward to the clash on October 24.

He said: “So many fans are waiting for this fight. Tyson Fury’s record speaks for itself. He is unbeaten, very self-confident and difficult to fight. But I love challenges and I love testing myself.

“This fight keeps me interested and it’ll be one of the most difficult for sure.”

Klitschko is the 1.22 favourite to retain his crown with Fury 4.20 to take it off him.