A route to a British title shot could open up for Tom Dallas if he can silence Ian Lewison.

Saturday night’s heavyweight clash for the Southern Area title at York Hall, Bethnal Green, is being billed as one of the most eagerly anticipated domestic fights this year.

Lewison – with seven wins to his name from his 10 professional fights – has had plenty to say in the build-up to the fight, insisting he will stop Chatham’s Dallas inside three rounds.

Dallas said: “I’ve wanted this opportunity to fight for a belt for a long time. I felt good after that first fight back, from a year out, and asked my promoter if I could do it now. I can’t get motivated about just fighting some nobody.

“If I win this, then I am two fights away from an English title fight against John McDermott. Win that and I can fight David Price for the British title – so I am potentially just three fights away from a British title opportunity.”

Lewison has taken to twitter to goad Dallas and his team, labelling the 6ft 6in fighter a coward, among the many offensive tweets.

“Ian Lewison has been all mouth and I’m right up for it,” said 28-year-old Dallas, who has been sparring with Britain’s No.8 ranked Michael Sprott – a man regularly chosen to train by the Klitschko brothers.

“I found it all pretty funny. He’s gone over the top a few times and promised everyone he is going to finish me off inside three rounds. He’s only setting himself up for a fall. If he doesn’t do what he says then he’s going to look like an idiot. I am confident I will stop him.”