Tony Dodson has accused Paul Smith of lacking respect during their pre-fight conference ahead of their rematch for the vacant British super-middleweight title.

Dodson claims that his fellow Liverpudlian tried to spark a verbal exchange as the duo posed for photographs, and plans to do his talking in the ring at the USN Bolton Arena on Saturday.

"We were on the phone two weeks ago talking," said the 32-year-old, who was beaten on points by Smith when they last met in 2010. "We've been friends since we were kids.

"I don't expect him to be my best mate before a fight but he should show some respect. I've shown him respect the whole way through. I have no problem doing a stare-down but then he comes out with something like 'have you got nothing to say?' I'll say it on Saturday night when I fight.

"I'll do my talking in the ring. I have nothing to prove and whatever I say beforehand isn't going to make any difference to me knocking him out on Saturday night."

Smith admits that the pair are in regular contact but says that their friendship went out the window once a rematch was agreed.

Smith said: "He texts and phones me sometimes and we give each other advice, but he's a boxing acquaintance, not a friend. I wouldn't fight a friend.

"Even now I want to punch holes in him, never mind Saturday night when the bell goes. I want to make sure that I win that title."