Anthony Nelson has served his time on the small hall shows and is ready to “push on”.
The South Shields boxer has one of the biggest tasks on the night in Newcastle as he faces Charlie Edwards for the vacant WBA Continental super-flyweight title.
Edwards, who won the British title last year, starts as favourite against the 32-year-old who has recently returned from a two-year hiatus.
But Nelson, who won the Commonwealth title in the same Metro Radio Arena three years ago, is inspired with this opportunity on his doorstep.
“It’s a big night for Newcastle,” said the Mal Gates boxer, who outpointed Simas Volosinas on his comeback at Temple Park in April.
“It really feels like big time boxing is back and with Lewis and Josh spearheading that it opens the doors for the fighters who are either just starting out or who are knocking on the door.
“I’m buzzing to be back on the comeback trail.
“I got back to winning ways recently and we continue to keep things rolling.
“It was six rounds under my belt at the end of April, I dropped him in the first but in all honesty if I had got him out of there right away it wouldn’t have really served it’s purpose.
“I got the ring rust off and now we’re back in to title contention.
“I’ve served myself on the small hall shows and I’ve got to push on now starting on Saturday.”
Nelson and Edwards have identical records but the boxer, known as ‘Babyface’ says his rival is a little over-confident in a match which could prove one of the fights of the night.
“Charlie is full of himself,” said Nelson (pictured right facing off with is opponent).
“He’s a good technician and he’s got some skills but he hasn’t been in with me yet. He won’t be able to keep me off, I’ll be too strong for him.
“I’ll let him think otherwise and be over-confident because he’ll be in for a real shock.
“He’ll have to bring every tool because he has a big job to do.”
Nelson’s North v South battle with Edwards is part of a huge night of action in Newcastle where local star Lewis Ritson can win the British lightweight title outright against unbeaten Belfast man Paul Hyland Jnr. and Sunderland’s talented Rio Olympian Josh Kelly challenges Commonwealth Welterweight champion Kris George.
Gavin McDonnell defends his WBC International super-bantamweight title against Darlington’s Stuart Hall in a must-win clash for both men.
Arfan Iqbal defends his English Cruiserweight belt against Simon Vallily and former three-weight World champion Ricky Burns fights for the 50th time as a pro.
Tickets priced £40, £60, £80 and £100 are on sale now from the Metro Arena at http://www.metroradioarena.co.uk, on 0844 493 6666 or in person from the Metro Radio Arena Box Office. Please note venue facility and booking fees will apply.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Ian Horrocks/ Matchroom
