DUDLEY’S Chris Male says he is ready to take his place among the country’s top ten featherweights.

The punching postman takes on Liam Richards at Wolverhampton’s Civic Hall for the British Masters title during First Team Promotions next Crunchtime at Lunchtime show on June 6.

Male is unbeaten in eight professional fights and is yet to lose a round while Wiltshire’s Richards is also undefeated in six bouts.

The show will again be screened around the world on the internet courtesy of Hatton Promotions, and Male is under no illusions as to how important the fight is.

Male said: “This is the biggest fight of my career without a doubt.

“It’s time for me to prove that I belong in the top ten in the country.

“If I win it will spring me forward and I could be fighting for the English title later in the year, I’ve just got to mow through this guy to be honest.

“The fight will be broadcast all over the world, what more motivation could I want?”

Male has been sparring with welterweights to prepare for Richards’ strong, aggressive style.

As the number one contender for the Midlands Area title, Male says he was keen to meet Leicestershire’s undefeated Del Rogers for the crown.

But Rogers has elected to make a voluntary defence and Male believes Richards could provide a sterner test.

He added: “I was prepared to go to their show to fight Del but he has exercised his right to have a voluntary defence, which means I would have to wait another six months.

“I was not prepared to sit out of the ring for that long. I wanted a test and Liam Richards is probably a tougher fight.

“He has won six fights, I have won eight and you have two of the best prospects coming through. Something has to give.

“I think I will fight the best fight of my professional career so far. I’m very, very confident.”

The June 6 show will also see borough welterweight’s Richie Ghent and Martin Gordon duke it out for the British Masters crown, while unbeaten middleweight Jamie Ball is aiming for his tenth professional win.

More information is available from PJ Rowson on 07976 283157.