Chris Hobbs has warned Anthony Yarde he is “coming to fight” as he bids to defend his Southern Area light heavyweight title.

The 29-year-old Southampton Army man only won the belt ten weeks ago but is getting back in the ring for a gutsy defence against much touted prospect Yarde.

It is a brave bout to take on given Hobbs could have chosen to rest for a while before an easy defence or two.

But Hobbs has never ducked fights in the past and is in bullish mood ahead of the contest at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday night.

He said: “Yarde is dangerous, very powerful and has some good boxing skills from what we have seen but he hasn't fought anyone. Literally a list of people for him to knock down and not fight back.

“I'm coming to fight. I love my title and I want to keep it and I know this win will launch my career into the big time.

“I'm coming to fight. If he is relying on just power that won't be enough.

“I have boxed at every weight from light welter to super heavy as an amateur and was never dropped or stopped.

“He is probably underestimating me but I've had that my whole life and career.

“As long as I stay focused I can get the win. He has had everything handed to him his whole career with sponsors and loads of TV exposure.

“I have had to work really hard to get here, from Southampton ABC where they taught me the beginnings to Ballys gym where I learned my pro stuff to Red Corner where I am now.”

There is no doubt that if Hobbs, who has six wins, one draw and one unfortunate loss as a pro compared to Yarde’s perfect ten record, could secure a victory it would open a lot of doors, not least to a potential shot at the British title.

He also has the added bonus of TV exposure, with the fight on the undercard of Liam Walsh’s world title bout and being broadcast live on BoxNation and BT Sport.

“It's been great to have the exposure I have been getting the last few weeks with TV interviews and stuff and to think I'm going be sat few seats away from Floyd Mayweather will be amazing.

“This big fight experience is what I wanted when I tuned pro and it doesn’t get much bigger than fighting on a world title bill.

“I feel mega confident about the fight. It’s just on me now to win the fight and as long as I concentrate for every second I will be coming home with my belt.”