Olympian Matt Korobov (28-1, 14 KOs) has been waiting for a major fight since 2014.

He was well ahead on the scorecards when Andy Lee clipped with a huge hook that rocked him badly, and eventually saw him stopped in the fifth round of their battle for the vacant WBO middleweight title.

On Saturday night, Korobov gets a second chance at title glory when he challenges WBC interim-middleweight champion Jermall Charlo at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

A victory would place Korobov in line for full WBC champion Canelo Alvarez.

Korobov received the fight on late notice, when original challenger Willie Monroe tested positive for a banned substance and was pulled from the fight when the World Boxing Council refused to sanction the fight.

Already in training for another fight, Korobov plans to upset the odds and pull off a year-end shocker before a televised audience on Fox.

"It was a surprise to get the call for this fight. I was sleeping and preparing for my second workout of the day. But I was training hard already so I accepted right away," Korbov said.

"I've been preparing as hard as I can to make everything go exactly how I want it to on Saturday. It's short notice but we've made the proper adjustments to the fight plan and we'll be ready to make it happen in the ring.

"I don't pay any attention to outside noise or anyone who doubts me. I've been preparing for this all of my life. This is my second opportunity to become a champion and I'm going to make the most of it. I'm going to show everything I've got.

"I have to be the best version of myself on Saturday night. I'm going to take all of my amateur and pro experience and mix it up to make a great performance."