Jones: I'll be the master

By sosborn bysimon osborn simon.osborn@essnmedia.co.uk

Ben Jones says he could be ready to fight tomorrow as he steps up his preparation for his shot at the International Masters title.

The Redhill based boxer is topping the bill at an outdoor show in Merstham later this month and has vowed to put on a show in front of his home supporters.

He said: "It is my first fight over 10 rounds but I could do that tomorrow and it wouldn't be a problem.

"I started my training properly two weeks ago and I went back in a pretty high level anyway. I feel sharp and I can't wait to get out there in front of the local boxing fans and show them what I'm all about."

Up to 500 fight fans will gather at Moatside Stadium for the show on July 25, with tickets priced from £30 for adults and £15 for children and OAPs.

The show will see a number of local fighters compete in the event, with Robin Deakin continuing his quest for a second win and Redhill's Daryll Setefield making his professional debut.

However, most of the interest will be about Jones who is establishing quite a reputation for himself having lost just once in his career.

"The belt was vacant so I'm still not sure who I'm up against yet but I hope to know soon as I'll want to study the tapes.

"It should be a big step up for me but I'm confident I can get the win and keep moving forward.

"I'm down for the prizefighter later this year and I want at crack at the British title around Christmas."

The bout will see Jones compete at featherweight for the first time, however the former Crawley ABC member is confident making the weight will not be a problem.

"You weigh in 30 hours before the fight so I can drop a bit off and be back to my normal fighting weight in time for the fight.

"I wouldn't want to box down at that weight but it is only four pounds so I'm not too concerned."

And Jones, who has benefited from sponsorship from Nutfield Health, said he hopes the whole community get behind his bid for Masters glory.

"It isn't often people from round here are able to see professional boxing as normally you have to go up to London.

"But there is a lot of interest and it would be great if it could be a real family occasion with everyone who likes the sport to come down and back their local fighters."

For tickets call Micheal Alldis on 07734351966 or Ben Jones 07720045566.