Tony Jones re-takes his collision course
Telford's Tony Jones faces an unknown quantity for tonight's fight night - but it's an opponent he could have boxed already.
Two pull outs have left Jones with a debutant for promoter Tommy Owens' show in the Holte Suite at Aston Villa Football Club on Saturday night,
His bout has also been reduced from a six-rounder to over four, so that Irvin Magno can be eased into the pro ranks.
Jones was first paired with southpaw Lee Gibbons, who has since landed himself a British Challenge light welterweight title shot against Kane Stewart.
Lee Connolly replaced him but has now withdrew, with Magno stepping in for his paid bow. Jones has heard of him, though.
The welterweight from Brookside was meant to go up against him in his last amateur fight, before opponents were switched for a bill where Jones won by TKO.
He said: "I still don't know that much about him. Back then, we'd both had 35 fights, so he's obviously got more amateur experience than me now.
"But the pros is a different game and he's got the pressure of his debut to contend with. He'll have his doubts, as we all did, over whether he's suitable for this.
"I won't be under-estimating him and I know he'll come to fight, not just be there for a payday. No one wants to lose their first pro fight.
"I've come a long way since I turned over and I want to show how I've developed in my performance. I've got enough experience to handle myself.
"I'll be having a bit of breather after this, so I want to finish on a high and express my capabilities. I've been boxing regularly since I became a pro."
'Blaze' will move to six paid wins without reply with a victory but won't have manager Kellie Maloney, who is away on a cruise, watching from ringside.
The 24-year-old is second on a card where Daniel Breeze, a former sparring partner, will defend his British Challenge middleweight title for the first time.
In the other corner will be challenger Natty Howell for the eight-rounder, a battle for the belt that has got West Midlands fight fans talking.
Jones said: "It's hard to pick a winner, but I've known 'Breezy' longer. If he uses his head, he has the experience to get the job done.
"If Natty starts the fight too fast and goes overly looking for the knockout early on, it could back-fire on him. That's where 'Breezy' could nick it."
Jones has benefitted by sponsorship from Brookshaw & Stuart and Dr Greens Hydroponics, but is seeking further backing. For more information, call 07903 538 008.
