Martin Welsh is eager to put his unbeaten record to the test and take his career to the next level.

The Swanley boxer clinched the ninth victory of his professional career recently and is currently preparing to fight in Kent next month.

Finding someone to give him a real test, however, has been no easy task.

"I would love to face a strong opponent as it makes you push that bit harder," said the 30-year-old.

Welsh beat William Warburton on points a fortnight ago in Brentwood but was expecting to face former English light welterweight champion Scott Hayward before he pulled out at late notice.

Welsh, who is promoted by Frank Maloney, is now seeking a shot at the light middleweight English title which is held by Blackpool’s Brian Rose. "I want to step it up and although I’ve only been boxing professionally for two years, I had around 100 amateur fights."

Welsh, who in the daytime works as a waterman ferrying sightseers up and down the Thames, works just as hard at night and currently trains at Body Shots in Crayford.

He has mixed with some top fighters in his career, especially during his time training at Lambeth’s Fitzroy Gym alongside the likes of current WBA world heavyweight champion David Haye.

Now he is hoping to show his home fans what he can do at Medway Park on March 18.

The show is set to be a 1,500 sell-out with Welsh lining up alongside five other Kent fighters.

Tickets are available from Martin on 07727 414218 or from the box office on 01634 338338.