European super-featherweight champion Ryan Garner has said that people can expect “fireworks” when he fights Reece Bellotti on Saturday.
The two will meet for the British, Commonwealth and European super-featherweight titles at the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC).
Garner goes into the contest having recently picked up the European title with a victory over Salvador Jimenez in March.
“It’s a massive opportunity for me,” Garner told BBC Sport.
“I can be the first person from Southampton to be British, Commonwealth and European champion, so there’s a chance to make history.
“I have massive respect for Reece but I think I’m better. That being said, this is my biggest challenge by a mile and I’ll have to be at my best.
“It’s going to be a very exciting fight and I think we will both bring fireworks, but I’m convinced that I will come away with the win.”
The 27-year-old is unbeaten as a professional and trains in Southampton with coach Wayne Batten, just a short distance away from the Saints’ St Mary’s Stadium.
Wins against Liam Dillon and Archie Sharp earned him the opportunity to headline in the nearby town of Bournemouth in March at the same venue former WBO cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith fought in three times.
Garner and Bellotti’s match-up has been tipped to be an exciting one because of their similar styles and attitudes in the ring.
Both men have been known to be in “tear-ups” and like to meet their opponent in the middle of the ring, inflicting a high and consistent output of punches.
They have also both been recognised for having tremendous engines, not letting up or slowing down in previous fights.
Despite 34-year-old Bellotti having five defeats on his record, since moving up in weight he has won six consecutive bouts, picking up the British and Commonwealth titles along the way.
Bellotti comes into this contest off the back of an impressive victory over rival Michael Gomez Jr in Manchester, and he will be looking to silence the home supporters.
“I’m not taking this lightly at all,” Garner added.
“I have to be switched on at all times because If I’m not then it could jeopardise everything that I have worked for, so I’ll make sure that won’t happen.
“I believe I’m getting better with every camp and I still think people are yet to see the best of me.
“I want to be known as the best fighter to have come out of Southampton. I believe I’m destined to fight at St Mary’s Stadium and I’m not going to lose or let up on the way to that.”
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