IN SEPTEMBER unknown Liverpool cruiserweight Tony Moran will lock horns with American boxing legend Roy Jones Jr in his home city.

So how do you prepare for the fight of your life against an icon of US boxing? By living and training with a man who has already masterminded a victory over Jones, of course.

And that’s how Moran came to spend three days this week living and working with legendary Newbridge trainer Enzo Calzaghe, who oversaw son Joe destroy Jones in 2008 at Madison Square Garden in New York.

The living part of that introduction is important as well, bearing in mind Moran, 42, currently describes himself as being homeless.

After eight years out of the sport and a crack at Mixed Martial Arts, Moran faces a 46-year Jones who is unbeaten in his last eight fights, over three years and who of course, is a former five-weight world champion.

But he is certain his experience with Calzaghe will help to give him the edge over his illustrious opponent.

“I went down to Wales at the weekend, I worked with Enzo Calzaghe, who very kindly invited me down,” he said.

“Enzo told me he was going to break me, he gave me the greatest respect, he saw I have the attributes and desire to succeed in this fight. It was a great experience.”

Calzaghe explained to the Argus: “Tony has a great story, a great attitude and he was a pleasure to work with.

“Let’s be honest here, he’s got his work cut off for him with someone like Roy Jones who is a friend of mine.

“But the physical training Tony did with me was no different to the training Joe did for every big fight he had.

“He ran the steps, the whole nine yards.

“In terms of his technique and fight skills, I just tried to help Tony accentuate his positives. He’s a giant guy who throws a short jab and that’s illogical, a better use of his reach advantage is essential against a guy like Roy Jones.”

Moran expanded on his current domestic situation.

“I’m still homeless; I’m relying on the goodwill of family and friends and have been for about two-and-a-half years. It’s not ideal, but it’s part of the story. I won’t relinquish that element to this fight. I am a genuinely hungry fighter,” he explained.

“I was in a homeless shelter helping out and heard a Tweet Roy Jones would be fighting in Liverpool. For the next five hours, I bombarded the promoters to get the fight. It was going to be a lucky Liverpool lad who got the fight, and through my own desperation, I was in a position I managed to lobby to get the fight. I jumped all over the opportunity like a maniac.

“I can’t match Roy Jones for pedigree, but I am an able and skilful man, and this is my big chance. What an event for the city of Liverpool, the first time Jones has fought in the UK as well by the way.”