Gavin Tait is preparing for the fight of his life as he attempts to stop highly-rated and unbeaten Frankie ‘Funtime’ Gavin.

The light welterweight contest takes place next month at Upton Park in London and Tait, from Sheppey, is determined to halt Gavin’s rapid rise through the professional ranks.

Tait, now 34, has had a stop- start professional career but feels he is currently in top form.

He said: "I’ve had my ups and downs as a professional but when I first started I was an opponent and I was just travelling around to fight.

"It’s hard to get a decision when you are fighting away from home. Now I’m fighting on my back door and it’s changed things around.

"This is the biggest fight I’ve had by far and the fella I’m fighting is talked up as being a potential world champion and destined for big things.

"For me to be fighting him is a privilege but he shouldn’t underestimate me as I’m ready and up for it. I’m not just going to be making up the numbers – I want to cause an upset."

Tait has a record of eight wins and eight defeats but has won his last three while 24-year-old southpaw Gavin, who was crowned world amateur champion in 2007, has six straight pro wins with five of those coming by knock-out.

The fight is on Saturday, May 15 and is being promoted by Frank Warren. A host of top names will be in action with Michael Katsidis and Kevin Mitchell fighting for the WBO lightweight title, while Danny Williams and Sam Sexton clash for the British and Commonwealth heavyweight belts.

Also on the bill are James De Gale, Derek Chisora and the three Walsh brothers. Tait’s contest is likely to be screened on Sky Sports as part of their Friday Night Boxing show.