Although he has yet to attract a serious challenger for the fall mayoral election, Mayor Mufi Hannemann greeted supporters and declared himself "ready to rumble" yesterday at the opening of his campaign headquarters.

Hundreds turned out to attend the mayor's noon event at Dole Cannery.

Following a blessing by Bishop Mariano Debusca and a traditional Chinese lion dance, the mayor thanked those in attendance.

"I am ready for this job interview. Four years ago, it was about a resume and promises. Today, it is about a record, a record of accomplishment," said the mayor, draped in lei. "I am ready, more than ever, to take that record out and say we need to take Mufi Hannemann back to Honolulu Hale."

Seven people have signaled their intent to run against Hannemann, but none has any campaign funds or much name recognition and only three have formally filed.

Candidates have until July 22 to file nominating papers with the state office of elections to run for public office.

Hannemann has yet to officially file his own candidacy papers with the elections office.

The primary election is Sept. 20 and the general election is Nov. 4.

With more than $2.5 million in campaign funds and no real opponent, Hannemann said he will continue to fund advertisements about the city's proposed rail transit project to correct what he called "lies" being spread by "right-wing, conservative organizations from the Mainland."

He added, "I only know one way to run and that is as an underdog. I want everyone to know I'm ready. I love to campaign, and I love to be mayor. If you're going to run for mayor bring your 'A' game."

Hannemann said he is focused on re-election and declined to say whether he would seek other office midway through his next term as mayor, should he win re-election.

"As far as I'm concerned, my focus is on getting re-elected," he said. "(However), we're never going to say never to any opportunity that may arise."