Raiko Santana rarely walks into a fight as the favorite and that certainly won't change September 13.

Oddsmakers are doubting the 32-year-old's chances against 168-pound contender Steven Nelson at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas as part of next weekend's Canelo Alvarez-Terence Crawford undercard. The betting line, however, can’t fight for Nelson.

Although he’s rough, tough and knows how to fight, Santana (12-4, 6 KOs) sees something in Nelson he can take advantage of. He acknowledges that winning a decision as the clear B side is an uphill battle but won't have to worry about the judges' scorecards if he's able to take them out of the equation.

“I know he’s tough and strong,” Santana told The Ring. “He’s never been dropped or even hurt, but I believe in myself and know I have the power to stop him. I’m coming to win.”

Nelson, 37, needs to get himself back on track. For the first time in his professional career, he lost. Diego Pacheco outboxed him in a duel of unbeaten contenders on January 25 and the Omaha, Nebraska, native is determined to atone for a spirited showing in defeat.

Santana can't afford to let him do so.

The Cuban native has made things hard on himself. He lost two of his first five fights, including his debut in Russia, and has since been fed to up-and-comers.

During that process, though, something funny happened: He started winning.

Against Lorenzo Simpson, Joseph George and Marquis Moore, Santana was predicted to lose. Yet, he defied the odds and got it done.

With showtime rapidly approaching, Santana is finishing an arduous training camp. His talk and bravado won’t be taken seriously. He understands that, but the seven-year pro isn't a big talker anyway and would prefer to let his boxing speak for itself.

“I’m not worried about what anyone has to say,” Santana said. “I’ve been working really hard and I feel great. Nelson is a great fighter and he has my respect, but I’m looking forward to the victory.”