Jon Fernandes is hoping to make use of some Welsh inspiration as he bids to pick up his first title as a professional boxer.

The Southampton fighter will step into the ring to square off against Jamie Speight at Southampton Guildhall on Friday, November 30, for the Southern Area super featherweight title in the biggest night of his career.

Fernandes has been preparing for the fight by travelling regularly to Wales for some top class sparring alongside training partners of world champion Nathan Cleverly, pictured, thanks to the links his trainer Wayne Batten has with the Welsh camp.

It is a long haul for a fighter who also holds down a full-time job, but Batten is hopeful the commitment will pay dividends.

“Jon has had some really good sparring in Wales and looks in great shape,” he said.

“It’s great this fight has happened because Jon was due to fight for the English title on October 5 but sadly that fell through.

“He was disappointed at the time to lose that opportunity but now, in my view, he has actually gained from that because he was due to fight in London but is now in front of his home fans.

“Hopefully the Southampton boxing public will turn out to cheer on one of their own and Jon will get the win.

“If anybody deserves a title fight then it’s Jon. His dedication and commitment are second to none and hopefully that will translate into a title next week.”