Tony Milch says he is ready for the step-up ahead of his area title fight.
The Bushey Bruiser completed his 10th win at professional level following a points win over Lewis van Poetsch on Saturday night.
Now he will make the jump up a level having pencilled in the Lonsdale Challenger Belt bout with Matt Butler at York Hall next month.
Unbeaten Milch faces Englishman Butler on July 30 and he said: “I’m prepared physically and mentally to my first area title fight.
“It’s what I have been gearing up for. I’ve done four and six rounds and it’s not felt long enough. I’m not even warmed up. Now the longer fights will suit my style. Fitness is my key and I thrive on it as I’m not a front-runner.
“It will be a step up but I feel ready for it. I've been waiting three years to get to this level. With luck I will be moving on to vie for the Southern Area title after that.”
Milch recently turned 35 but the light middleweight is showing no signs of slowing down.
He said: “I feel fresh, fit and sharp. And I’m hungry as ever. Having six years out of the sport does that. I’m now declaring my life to boxing, I’ve got a good couple of years left in boxing at least."
After defeating van Poetsch 40-37, Milch will take a week off before returning to training next week.
He said: "It was about ironing out the creases and getting rounds in the bank against an experienced fighter. My coach Ian Burbidge wanted me to get the rounds in.
"I will be back in training camp next week and then I will have around seven weeks sparring with top fighters. My preparation will be spot on."
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