MALMESBURY boxer Joe Hughes says the odds are already stacked against him as he bids to become the EBU European super-lightweight champion tomorrow, writes JONATHAN LEIGHFIELD.

Hughes is in Italy to face home fighter Andrea Scarpa in his second attempt to win the belt, following the Wiltshire ace’s unanimous decision loss to Anthony Yigit a year ago.

The 28-year-old believes he may have to knock Italian Scarpa out if he is guaranteed to fulfil his dream and become a European boxing champion.

“With it being in Italy, Matchroom Italia are promoting the show so it’s stacked against me in that sense,” said Hughes.

“They’re trying to build the profile of Italian boxing and I’m sure they’d rather do that with an Italian win, so I’ve got to make sure it’s really clear, make sure there’s no arguments and no way the judges can give the fight to him without it looking ridiculous.

“I’ve got to make sure I win as clearly as possible and not leave anything to: ‘I think I’m nicking these rounds and I won’t risk anything’. It will have to be comprehensive.”

Despite defeat in his previous title shot, Hughes is adamant he belongs at such a high level and says he doesn’t fear the 6ft 2 Italian ahead of the fight in Florence.

“Last time, I know I didn’t perform well and I know why I didn’t, but I felt that I was more than comfortable at that level,” said Hughes.

“I won the first half of the fight, so I know I’m good enough to be at that level.

“I don’t think Scarpa is as good as Yigit was, so I’m pretty confident going in knowing that I’m not going to be out of my depth.

“I’ve watched him (Scarpa) a few times now. He’s got a long range, so he doesn’t get too close.

“He is a good skilful boxer from long range and I’ve got to try and negate that.

“I’m only 5ft 7, so trying to get past those long arms and him trying to keep me away will be a challenge, but it’s nothing I haven’t faced before.

“I’ll just do what I normally do, get inside and work in close, try and work to my strengths rather than letting him dictate.

“If he stays at long range and I let him get his long shots off, then he’ll probably score more points and it’ll be more difficult for me.

“He’s got a very impressive record, I know that. He’s no mug, that’s for sure.”