Jennings: I'll be the 'Boss' of Minter

10:33am Saturday 2nd February 2008

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WBU welterweight cham-pion Michael Jennings believes that the big fights are just around the corner as he prepares to make the first defence of his title tonight.

The 31-year-old fighter from Chorley takes on Ross "The Boss" Minter at the ExCel Arena tonight in a much-anticipated domestic contest.

The pair were due to meet last year only for Minter, son of former WBC and WBA middleweight champ Alan, to pull out through injury.

But the pair will finally meet tonight and Jenn-ings, a hot favourite with the bookies to retain his title, said he was confident of a successful defence.

He said: "Training has gone very well and I just can't wait to get into the ring now.

"I know that one punch can change a fight, but I'm happy to be going into this fight as favourite, and I'm very confident of getting the job done.

"It feels like I've been waiting to fight this guy forever so I'm really pleased to finally get in against him.

"He'll be a good name to have on my record. He's said he's going to come looking for me and that suits me down to the ground.

"I know I've got the skills to combat anything he can throw at me. I've proved that throughout my career and I'm supremely confident of winning.

"Your next fight is always your biggest and I'm absolutely buzzing for this one."

The former British champion, who is the main support on the bill topped by Amir Khan v Gairy St Clair, admitted that this fight was the biggest of his career and was the gateway to some big pay-days in the future - including a potential crack at the WBO crown, who have Jennings at number three in their rankings.

He added: "I've had a lot of fights and in all those bouts I've been preparing myself for the big fights.

"These are the fights I want and when I get past Minter, there's a lot of good fights out there for me.

"But, first things first I have to beat Minter.

"I'm not bothered if it's a first-round stoppage or on points, as long as I walk out with the belt.

"This is a big night, in front of the cameras, and I'm going to make it a good one."