Jon Fernandes believes he has what it takes to bag his first title as he headlines the big Southampton Guildhall show on Friday night.

The 28-year-old takes on Jamie Speight for the Southern Area super bantamweight belt in front of a large home crowd.

Fernandes is respectful of Speight’s record but is certain he has the ability to bag the milestone title as long as he is at his best.

“I’m buzzing and I can’t wait for Friday night,” said Fernandes, who has a record of nine wins from nine contests as a pro under the tutelage of Southampton-based trainer Wayne Batten.

“He’s definitely experienced.

“I honestly think he’s better than people might think if they watched his last fight. He was giving away a lot of natural weight and experience against Ben Jones who is an English champion.

“He’s had seven weeks to train for this and he’s 24 so he’s not looking to just come down and get paid – he wants to win.

“I think if I box at my best I’ll beat him no problem but if I don’t turn up I think he has the capability of beating me. Like all sport you’ve got to perform on the day.

“I’ve got the beating of him without a doubt but he’s a game kid and he will have a go back.

“He likes to move and not stand toe-to-toe which makes it interesting too.

“People have said about him having championship experience and having done the ten rounds whereas I haven’t but look who he did it against – they weren’t as good as me and I’ve not lost as a pro.

“I hope when it gets tough I’ll have the minerals and I’m hoping he won’t.

“I’ve been working towards this and I’ve improved a lot since I’ve joined Wayne and that has given me this opportunity.”

The Guildhall card is set for nine fights, and there will also be live entertainment from band LST. Doors open at 6pm with boxing starting at 7pm.

Tickets are available from the box office on 023 8063 2601 or online via their website.

 

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