Anthony Nelson insists he will take his big title opportunity with “both hands” in Newcastle.
The 32-year-old will take on the talented Charlie Edwards for the vacant WBA Continental super-flyweight championship at the Metro Radio Arena, on Saturday, June 16. The pair are pictured facing off above.
It would appear, on the face of it, that this challenge has come a shade early for Nelson, given he has just made his comeback after a two-year absence.
But the South Shields star says that you can’t always choose the timing of title openings and plans to grasp this one.
“I always wanted to be in big fights and I know I will be,” said ‘Babyface’ who entertained his fans with a six-round points win over Simas Volosinas at Temple Park last Saturday night.
“The idea was to get the Shields fight out the way and then look for the bigger ones.
“I never wanted to stay on the small hall shows.
“I am happy it has come around this quick, but in an ideal world I would have wanted a few more fights before fighting at this level.
“Opportunities come around and you either take them or you don’t. It’s up to you really.
“I am not willing to let things slip. I will tackle it with both hands, head on.
“I know I can come away with a win.”
Edwards will start as favourite, even though he is stepping into opposition territory.
At 25, the former Team GB man from Epsom is the younger man and more active, having boxed twice since winning the vacant British super-fly title in Glasgow last April, against Scotland’s Iain Butcher.
If Nella is to upset the odds, he must train full-time – grafting all day and then going to the gym on an evening is not the most conducive approach to tackling Edwards.
“Ideally I need a sponsor to back me up in what I’m doing,” he said.
“That way I can get right back into full-time training.
“That would be a massive thing for me. I would love some backing from a local company or someone.
“Anyone can contact me on social media – Instagram, Twitter or Facebook. Just look for Babyface Nelson. Thank you.”
Words: Roy Kelly. Picture: Ian Horrocks/ Matchroom
