DESPITE the trepidation over a step into the unknown, Joe Hughes says that he feels ready to add an international strap to his record.

The 24-year-old Malmesbury fighter takes on Georgian opponent Jaba Shalutashvili for the IBO international super-lightweight title at the Action Indoor Sports Centre in Bristol on Saturday April 18.

Shalutashvili, who has won 16, lost 13 and drawn one of his 30 professional contests, winning his last three by knockout, was only confirmed as the man to take on Hughes in the last few weeks after a lengthy search for a competitor.

But Southern Area champion Hughes, who trains at Bristol’s Paddy John’s Gym, is excited by the prospect of locking horns with the Georgian, who was beaten on his only previous fight in the United Kingdom, as he looks to put himself in a position to compete for the country’s top honours.

“We had one or two opponents lined up but you need someone considered tough enough by the IBO and that was the problem with one of the guys,” said Hughes, who was sanctioned for an English title eliminator earlier this year, only for the bout to fail to come to fruition.

“This guy was only sorted out a few weeks ago and I haven’t been able to find any videos of him or anything like that.

“When I fought Philip Bowes (who Hughes stopped to win the Southern Area title last October), I knew that he was good but I was able to study him – I can’t do that this time.

“I know that fighters from that part of the world are usually tough and come to have a scrap. He’s won his last three by knockout, so I know that he can punch.

“But I want to win belts. If I can get through this one, hopefully I can get a shot at the English and then eventually the British.

“It’s not that easy but if you can show that you’re winning titles, hopefully that shows the board that you’re ready for it.”

Tickets for the April 18 bill, which also features Hughes’ Bristol stablemate Danny Butler, are still available, priced at £35 standard and £60 ringside.

Contac t Hughes on 07878 454570 or visit jhboxing.com

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