Botha, a former International Boxing Federation world champion with 60 fights and 48 wins to his name, views the former All Black centre, who is unbeaten in five bouts, as a springboard to return to the big time.

"Sonny Bill's a master of the offload, but the difference is that he offloads balls whereas I offload punches," Botha, 44, said from a steamy Durban, where he has lost 9kg in the past month.

"The World Boxing Association international title will be on the line, and once you wear that belt it could propel you into the big time.

"I've been there before, but this time I'm far better prepared. I'm going to teach Sonny Bill a thing or two," warned Botha, who will fly into Brisbane a week before the fight.

Botha also took a swipe at Quade Cooper, the former Australian rugby international who makes his pugilistic debut on the same bill.

"These guys have little idea of what's in store for them on February 8 in Brisbane, but I'm sure the boxing fans will enjoy the bouts," Botha said.

The South African's promoter, Thinus Strydom, said he is concerned about the heat wave in Australia, which has also affected the Gold Coast capital.

"With the lights on, the ring could be turned into a sauna and it could result in a real energy-sapping experience."

Botha has fought Evander Holyfield, Wladimir Klitschko, Lennox Lewis, Mike Tyson and Michael Moorer, although he was knocked out by them all.

He has lost his last three fights, two against unheralded European-based boxers. Williams, 27, has beaten five no-namers.

The fight at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre will be shown on SkyRoomLive.com, a live-streaming portal.