Title opportunity too good to turn down '“ Anthony Nelson

The South Shields fighter faces his Surrey counterpart for the vacant World Boxing Association Continental super-flyweight title at Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena on June 16.

In an ideal world Nelson would have preferred another warm up fight before stepping up in levels.

The 32-year-old only made his ring return after two years out against Simas Volosinas, scoring a points win on home turf at Temple Park Leisure Centre.

But he knows this is no ideal world. And in boxing when a chance arises you have to snap it up with both hands, as you may never get the opportunity again.

“I am happy it has come around this quick, but in an ideal world I would have wanted a few more fights before fighting at this level,” he said.

“Opportunities come around and you either take them or you don’t. It’s up to you really.

“I am not willing to let things slip. I will tackle it with both hands, head on.

“I know I can come away with a win.”

Nelson knocked off the ring rust in typical fashion in Shields a fortnight ago, but he knows he will have to be at his best to beat Edwards, also beaten just once as a professional.

“The fight has come at a good time in a lot of ways,” he said.

“The training has rolled on nicely for the next fight.

“I always wanted to be in big fights and I know I will be.

“I never wanted to stay on the small hall shows.”