Alex Branson-Cole is confident ahead of a landmark bout - having even taken time off work to prepare for it.

Faversham’s Branson-Cole will enter the ring for the 10th time as a professional at Top Tier Boxing’s ‘Mentality’ show at the Brentwood Centre on Saturday.

The super middleweight had initially been scheduled to take on Essex’s undefeated Taylor Jordan - but will now lock horns with Malam Varela instead.

Regardless of opponent, the self-employed roofer, who has won both of his bouts so far this year, has left no stone unturned in pursuit of an eighth professional victory.

He said: “I’ve had a lot more time in the gym. I didn’t realise how much I was rushing about when I’ve been working.

“I’ve been doing a roofing job, then jumping in the shower before going to the gym, and doing runs before work in the morning.

“It’s been very chaotic. I’ve had more time to focus on my training this time.

“That’s been brilliant - but I cannot get too used to it because I’ve got bills to pay! Boxing is just a hobby that I do.

“But I’m pretty confident I will be ready and will get the win on Saturday because I’ve been training hard.”

The 31-year-old has still only lost once and drawn once since he made the switch from the amateur ranks in 2022.

Branson-Cole, who had already taken part in a media day and open workout at Lakeside Shopping Centre last month ahead of his arranged fight with Jordan, noted: “It’s been quite a hectic journey.

“It’s been a roller-coaster, really. I’ve had a loss, a draw and wins.

“But going into my 10th fight, I’m feeling very experienced and very confident.”

While Varela’s professional record of two wins and four defeats is more mixed than that of Jordan, the former did end a run of three consecutive losses last month.

“He’s a good opponent,” said Branson-Cole. “He stopped his last opponent.

“But it’s the same target for me. I know that my last (scheduled) opponent (Jordan) is undefeated - but I look at all opponents the same.

“They all have two arms, two legs, and they’re ready to fight! So, I’ve got to be prepared.”

More than 50 fans are set to support Branson-Cole once more.

On how many people will be flocking to support him this time, he noted: “Probably about 60 or 70.

“I’ve had quite a lot of notice for this but I haven’t sold as many tickets - maybe because of the Euros going on - but I’m grateful for any support that I get. I’m grateful if I sell even 10 tickets.

“It’s a good venue. The last time I was there, people said to me ‘You need to come back on this show’. They had a really good laugh there.

“It’s not just the boxing - there was a bit of music, as well - and it’s a good night out.”

This is far from the first time Branson-Cole has had to contend with late changes of plan. It’s something he has now got used to, though.

He said: “I like the saying ‘embracing the chaos’. At first, I didn’t think it was going to be like this. But I’ve had cancellations and all sorts of other stuff to deal with.

“It’s been draining at times but I guess it’s been great to learn about boxing at this sort of level.

“I’m trying to push on, get more wins and get some titles now.”