JOHN Ness wants to bow out with a bang when he brings his boxing career to an end tomorrow.

The 52-year-old from Leigh on Sea will be facing an opponent 22 years younger than him at the latest fight night at the Boatyard Restuarant in his home-town.

And Ness is eager to impress.

“I’m 52 years old now so this is my last fight and one I want to win,” said Ness.

“Maybe I’ve been hit too many times already but I can’t remember my opponent’s name but I know he’s a lot younger than me and is only 30.

“I’ve fought him before and lost by one point but I actually thought I had won.

“That led to the rematch and it would be great to go out with a win, especially as I never thought I was ever going to be able to fight.”

Ness failed a boxing medical at the age of 16 when he was told those conducting the tests thought he had diabetes.

However, Ness returned to the sport at the age of 49 and has now raised around £6,500 for charity.

His latest bout is to raise funds for the Spinal Muscular Atrophy charity which has supported his friend’s son Joshua Newton.

“SMA is a neuromuscular condition that affects the nerves responsible for muscle function and sufferers have a severe loss of strength from an early onset,” said Ness.

“Ian Newton is a good friend of mine so I wanted to do this for his son and I’ve raised £1,000 so far which plenty more to come on the night I hope.”

Ness has prepared for the fight by training at the David Lloyd and Elite Gyms, which he often visits twice a day.

He has been put through his paces by well renowned MMA fighter Mark Cosh who has given up his time to help Ness be in the best shape possible.

“A huge and very special thanks should go to Mark my trainer and good friend,” said Ness.

“He has donated all his time to make this happen and I really appreciate all he’s done for me.”

Ness can be sponsored for his fight online at www.justgiving.com/John-Ness1