(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Michael Douglas believes he has won his fight against throat cancer.

The actor had announced last year that he was battling cancer after a walnut-sized tumour was found under his tongue. After intense radiation and chemotherapy Michael was seen looking gaunt and frail prompting fears for his health.

But the 66-year-old movie icon has declared his troubles over with the news that his tumour has sufficiently receded.

Yeah, oh, absolutely. I think the odds are with the tumour gone and what I know about this particular type of cancer that Ive got it beat, he enthused to Matt Lauer on the Today show.

Michael previously revealed his optimism that he would make a full recovery from the condition and his positive thinking remains. The Oscar winner now hopes to participate in Steven Soderberghs upcoming biopic, Liberace, and feels able to look forward instead of looking back.

It's put a timeline on my life, he said. I'm 66 now. You know, I'm fortunate I've got a mother who's 88. She'll kill me. She may be 87. My father's 94. So, you know, I feel good about those genes.

Michael has been warned by doctors not to be overly optimistic and must still undergo monthly checks. (C) Cover Media