BOXER Dan Newth continues his progress towards the professional ranks tonight when he fights Mark Hughes.

The Southend pugilist will take on his rival from Liverpool at the Boatyard restaurant in Old Leigh.

Newth, who fought with Southend ABC as an amateur, has stepped up to semi-pro level on the unlicenced circuit.

The lightweight has notched up four wins from four fights at that level, one of which was a knockout, since linking up with trainer Giles Carter in September and feels his career is on the up.

“I have come on in leaps and bounds since my transition from the amateur game,” said Newth.

“I feel that I have gone from strength to strength.

“I’m improving with all the strength and conditioning work I’m doing and cannot wait to have a British belt around my waist.”

And Newth has not go long to wait before he goes for a title, as he will take on Shaun Barnfather over six rounds at the Zero nightclub on April 23 for the Zero Tolerance British lightweight championship.

Carter said the plan was for Newth to win the crown, make four or five defences in the division and then turn professional in September.

“Danny has worked really hard in training at Southend Combat Academy and we’ve been concentrating on sinking his feet and punching hard to hopefully get more stoppages in the future,” the trainer said.

“He is improving all the time and has already been offered pro terms by Joe Pyle,”

Anyone wanting to buy tickets to see Newth fight can phone him on 07894 093250.