Louie Darlin earned a fearsome reputation in the semi-pro ranks and is now trying his luck in the pro game.

The Strood heavyweight had 35 fights as a semi-pro, claiming 30 KO wins, on the way to a World title victory.

He now has a date lined up for his pro debut, under the management of Steve Goodwin, and hopes to cause a stir.

“It’s full steam ahead now and I’m going after the big guns,” he said.

“I’ve boxed ex-pros and I know it’s going to be a big step up but I am working under probably one of England’s best trainers in John Cole.

“I want to go in and make a bang and for people to take notice. I’m here because I mean business.”

Darlin claimed his world title belt with a stoppage inside 60 seconds.

“I fought the No.2 semi-pro boxer in the world and was using it as a test to see if I was good enough,” said the Medway hopeful.

“I knocked him out inside 60 seconds and so that was the answer I needed.”

Darlin grew up boxing at gyms including St Mary’s and Strood but is now working with Cole at Bodyshots in Crayford.

“Training has been brilliant,” he said, ahead of his debut on March 14 at York Hall.

“John has been like a member of the family. He is constantly calling me up and making sure I am eating the right stuff.

“To make my debut will mean everything to me. I want to be winning in style and make people stand up and say ‘this bloke is something different’.”

Darlin makes his pro debut against Moses Matubu.