WELLING boxer Matthew Marsh has backed himself to be the first man to beat Derry Matthews and claim the WBU world featherweight title at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Saturday.

Marsh, who has just returned to the UK from a two-week training camp in Tenerife, said he was confident of ending Matthews’ 18-bout unbeaten run.

He said: “I am unbeaten in eight professional fights so one of our unbeaten records has got to give.

“Matthews is a good boxer but I think my style is suited to beating him.

“I’m in great shape. I’ve done all the hard work and now I just want to get in the ring and throw the first punch.”

The 25-year-old is expected to take 200 fans with him for the bout with the current WBU belt holder.

He said: “I’m buzzing at the idea of winning in front of my fans.

“I have represented my country and fought in the Commonwealth Games, but this is easily the biggest fight of my career and I can’t wait.”