Chris Matthews is back training with Johnny Armour following the former world champion’s release from prison.

Matthews (7-0) faces journeyman Joe Beeden (2-53-1) in his eighth professional bout at the Judgement Day show at Maidstone Leisure Centre on Saturday night and will have Armour in his corner after splitting from Keith Rose.

The Maidstone boxer linked up with Rose after Armour pleaded guilty to a drug offence in January but wanted to return to his original trainer.

Matthews, now fighting at lightweight said: “Johnny’s a good trainer. He knows he did something wrong but he’s learned from that and done his time.

“Keith wasn’t too happy but I can’t help that. I wanted to get back with Johnny because he was a world champion – he’s been there and done it.”

Matthews has been working hard for his first six-round bout which should lead to a title fight. As well as putting in the hours with Armour, his work as a dustman has helped him get in shape.

He said: “I’ve been doing a lot more training lately. I’ve been sparring 15-20 rounds and pad work for 10 rounds at a time and running up hills in Mote Park.

“I’m doing the bins as well, five days a week, which builds up the muscles. The lads from work are coming to watch and I’ve sold a lot more tickets this time – about 100.”

He still has tickets available for the eight-fight show, priced £35 and £55, which are available from his dad Ray on 07511 680092.

Kent super featherweight Charlie Shane tops Saturday's bill in a British Challenge Belt contest against Lewis van Poetsch, while super lightweight Luke Gibb, who has a big following through working in the County Town, faces Fonz Alexander in his third professional bout.

Other Kent fighters on the JE Promotions bill are heavyweight Dave Jones, English super bantamweight champion Josh Kennedy, Southern Area middleweight champion Grant Dennis and two-time Southern Area challenger super featherweight Martin Hillman.

Tickets will also be available on the night. Doors open at 5.30pm, with the first fight at 7pm.