Chris Matthews ready for Southern Area featherweight title challenge
Chris Matthews is confident of winning the Southern Area featherweight title in front of his home crowd in Maidstone this weekend on March 27.
There’s been a late change of opponent with Orpington's Martin Hillman (13-6) replacing Jack Budge, who withdrew for family reasons.
But Maidstone's Matthews (10-2) has taken it all in his stride and is ready to land the first title of his professional career at Maidstone Leisure Centre on Saturday night.
Like Budge, Hillman is a former sparring partner of the County Town boxer and this will be his fourth attempt at winning a Southern Area title.
'The Pie and Mash Kid' has far more experience than Matthews, who has trainer and former world champion Johnny Armour back in his corner, but is relaxed and really fancies his chances.
Matthews told Kent Online: “Martin’s my old sparring partner – I know what he’s like.
“I’ve sparred with him a lot and he’s a good boxer.
“He’s different to Jack but nothing’s really changed from my point of view because I know what they’re both like.
“I said I had to rough Jack up but it’s about the boxing with Martin. I just have to box him. I’ll take it easy for the first few rounds and then step it up.
“Johnny’s showed me a few more things and it’s good to have him back in the corner.
“A little power nap on Saturday before the fight and I’ll be ready. I don’t get nervous – I’ve had too many fights now.
“I reckon I should win. I just think Martin rushes sometimes and starts swinging and hopefully I can pick him off.”
Matthews’ title fight with Hillman tops the bill on JE Promotions’ Make or Break II show.
Victory would leave the Maidstone man in a good position to push on in his career.
He added: “This belt will open the door to everything. You’ve got the English title and the Commonwealth after that.
“Every boxer wants to win a title when they start out, especially the Southern Area because it’s the one to get and it means a lot.
“You get on TV after that, too, and your names gets out there.”
Opponent Hillman, a three-time Southern Area title contender, said: “Only eight days’ notice but no problem!
“It’s a hard fight against a good fighter but it’s a chance I can’t turn down as it would be a dream come true for me to win that belt.”
A busy bill also includes a pro debut for Dave Matthews – Chris’ brother – while popular Maidstone boxer Lenny Fuller (5-0) bids to extend his 100% record.
Tickets cost £40 or £60 at ringside and are available from Ray Matthews on 07511 680092.
Doors open at 5.30pm, with the action under way at 7pm.