Swindon-trained ‘Sniper’ Sam Smith continues his training diary for the Swindon Advertiser ahead of his participation in the Ultimate Boxxer II event at The O2 on November 2.

THERE are now only two full weeks to go until the Ultimate Boxer II Light-heavyweights.

I’ve been sharpening up this week and getting lots of rounds in sparring.

There’s probably only three or four spars left for me to do, so it’s at the business end of the training camp for me now.

The last spar will probably be next Friday, but I’ve banked a lot of rounds already this camp.

I’ve been doing a lot of six-round spars where I’ll be doing three rounds sparring, then jumping out of the ring and doing three rounds on the bag before jumping back into the ring again for another three.

I did a full 10-round spar this week, so it’s been a good mix and perfect preparation for this tournament.

I’m feeling sharp and ready to fight now, to be honest with you, but I have got to make sure I don’t do too much or peak too soon.

My weight is good, my fitness is good and I’m raring to go.

There’s also been plenty of the Tabata training that I explained in last week’s column.

I have shortened my runs down and replaced them with more sprint work to get the sharpness.

Long runs are more designed for weight loss and the short sprints are to get the sharpness needed for fight night.

It’s been a long camp, which not only tests you physically but mentally as well.

Some boxers can switch off once they’ve left the gym, but I can’t.

My mind has been on this next fight for a long time, I’m always thinking about it, even on rest days. Even if I have a month off after a fight, I’m still thinking about boxing, I can’t switch off, that’s my problem.

Some boxers will find that mentally draining but I’m actually alright with it.

I have got a good bit of support coming from Swindon on fight night, so thank-you to everyone who has bought a ticket.

I always get good support when I’m fighting in Swindon, but I understand that this next show at The O2 is a bit of a way to go.

If you want to come, then please contact me on social media for tickets.