SAMMY Ait-Tales insists he is up for the challenge after signing a professional contract.

The Bicester BC boxer, who will compete under the tutelage of coach Daza Usher, is fighting in the super-welterweight category.

Ait-Tales, 27, who works as an electrical engineer, has won 25 of his 30 fights to date.

He said: “I feel this is a progression from the level I currently compete at.

“The professional ranks will be a lot tougher.

“The level of opposition will improve, but I feel I am ready to make a mark on the pro scene.”

Usher added: “Sammy has been a pleasure to train for the last five years.

“He always puts in maximum effort and shows a great attitude in the gym.”

Meanwhile, Blackbird Leys boxer Daniel Robinson has been crowned Home Counties Class A champion.

Competing in the National Development Championships at Berinsfield, Robinson beat Qasim Kayani, of High Wycombe ABC, on a unanimous decision.

After a slow first round, he dominated the second, before forcing a standing eight count in the last.

Fellow Blackbird Leys fighters Keenan Dallimore and junior Joe Gaul both received byes to the Home Counties final.