Amir Khan said he is encouraged to hear Samuel Vargas will go for the knockout when the pair meet on Saturday night.
The 31-year-old is back in action in Birmingham this weekend as he continues his comeback.
Khan told a press conference: "I hope he does come looking for the knockout as it'll make for an exciting fight. Whatever he brings to the table we will have answers for.
"I'm glad they are talking and confident as they are making the fight more interesting.
"I've been in with fighters who are better than my opponent, no disrespect.
"I've never gone into a fight looking to knock out an opponent or throw big bombs but if an opening comes I will take it."
Vargas was supremely confident, insisting Khan is now past his best and damaged by the devastating knockout defeat against Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez in 2016.
He said: "There's no doubt in my mind I will be victorious on Saturday night, whether it's by knockout, going the distance or I break his ribs - I don't care.
"I think he's an old man and has been damaged a lot. If I touch him he's going to get hurt."
Khan replied: "I've been in bigger positions than this many times."
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