Luke aims to end Callum’s world plans

“I’m buzzing and I have absolutely everything to gain, he has everything to lose so I am dangerous to him. This is exactly what I’m in boxing for to push and test myself against the very best and Callum is that.”

While Blackledge is confident of gaining the win, Smith is planning on picking up a victory in style and proving that he is ready for a world title shot.

“Luke is a local lad, there’s going to be a bit of spite in there and it’s the last chance for me to prove that I am good enough to go and beat the winner of Jack and DeGale,” said Smith.

“The better the opponent the better you’ll see from me. A lot of fighters say that and I don’t think there’s many truer statements in boxing than that. It’s definitely the case for me.

“When I started off landing title fights and people were saying that this will be a tough test, I started to believe that and it would bring an extra level or two out of me.

“If I lose this I won’t fight for a world title, and I don’t deserve to. He’s coming to win, it’s a big night for him and he’s got a lot to gain.

“He lost to Rocky Fielding but there’s a lot of good wins on his record.

“He’s coming to get a win that will change his career, but if I am as good as people say I am, then it’s not just about winning it’s about looking good doing it.”