Warren says Hopkins is running out of viable options

As Calzaghe prepares for the challenge of Byron Mitchell in Cardiff on Saturday, the Welshman's promoter Frank Warren feels that Hopkins is running out of viable options.

"Hopkins has priced himself out of three good fights in the last 12 months - Roy Jones Jr, James Toney and Joe Calzaghe," Warren told BBC Wales Sport.

"He's no spring chicken and he's got nowhere to go, so hopefully he'll see sense. Don King (Hopkins' promoter) and myself have got fights together in the past, so hopefully we can sort something out here."

Calzaghe offered unification hope

Calzaghe himself is desperate for the chance to show his ability in America.

"Show me the money and I'll go over to the States and kick some ass," said the Newbridge fighter.

Unification talk is complicated by the involvement of a third promoter, German Wilfried Sauerland, who manages Sven Ottke (IBF and WBA champion) and Markus Beyer (WBC champion).

Ottke's not getting any younger and he's looking for a big fight for the end of the year Frank Warren

Warren is furious at suggestions from Germany that Calzaghe has ducked out of a fight with Ottke.

"Germany is a nightmare, I was so angry at the comments that came out of there," said Warren.

"I've been trying to get Ottke and Calzaghe together for 12 months.

"Ottke's not getting any younger and he's looking for a big fight for the end of the year, so hopefully Joe will get his chance.

"I want Joe to get the recognition for what he's achieved and we can only do that by getting him a big, big fight."

Calzaghe promises painful lesson

With all the superfight talk, the Calzaghe camp are keen that the attention is not diverted from Saturday's bout - and the very real challenge posed by Mitchell.

"All the chopping and changing has been dreadful for Joe, but this is a much better fight than Thomas Tate or William Joppy," said Warren.