Boxing: Lewis says his first fight in Africa is like a 'homecoming.'

A fight of the stature of Lewis against Hasim Rahman in Johannesburg on Sunday is special for South Africa - and special for Lewis.

And the Boxer, given the nickname of 'Lion', was quick to realise the importance of the coming days.

"You know they say lions always come home," said Lewis.

"I have always wanted to fight in South Africa - in Africa.

"When I was a kid getting into boxing, I used to watch videos of Muhammad Ali. And when I saw he went to Africa to fight (against George Foreman), I wanted to do the same."

Lewis flew in only 11 days before the fight - local knowledge suggests the champion should have arrived earlier to combat the effects of the 6,000ft altitude.

But Lewis, with the "thunder and lightning" in his fists, is not intending to let Rahman drain his energy banks.

One of Rahman's two defeats was at the heavy hands of Lewis' last victim David Tua.

He was leading on all three judges' cards when he was hit after the bell at the end of the ninth.

Rahman was given no extra time to recover from the late blow and was stopped in the 10th.

"You could say Rahman got unlucky against David Tua. I'm giving him another opportunity to prove himself, small opportunity because he's not going to get anywhere because I'm going to knock him out," said Lewis.

"Hasim's trying to steal my thunder, but I'm coming with my thunder and lightning. It's going to be a different story. I'm way ahead of schedule with my training.

"Rahman's never seen a boxer like me. In four or five rounds he's getting knocked out. My preparation's been really good, I've got to thank Emanuel Steward, he's a great trainer, a trainer of champions. He knows exactly what I need, certain areas where I need to be sharpened up."