WITNEY boxer (Steve) Marvin Mullins has had to work twice as hard ahead of his third professional fight at the Oasis Leisure Centre in Swindon next Friday.

A series of potential opponents had been put forward, only to withdraw their services a few days later.

Mullins explained: “There were six names suggested – four orthodox fighters and the other two southpaws.

“That meant having to vary the sparring routine – naturally there is a different approach to a left-handed rival.

“And with the stance of the opponent still to be determined, Islan (Eltuyev – his trainer) has had me prepared by going in the ring to spar with both kinds of boxers.

“I’m lucky at the Horseshoe gym because there is a new light heavyweight southpaw called Lawrence Bennett so I do not have to travel to train against a left- hander.

“And the orthodox sparring is mainly provided by Kelvin Young, who is boxing Bristol’s Martin Robbins for the vacant Southern Area Super Middleweight title in the ten-round main event.”

Mullins concedes his reputation could explain the reluctance of fighters to face him.

He added: “Although it was some years back, I had reached ABA Senior, ABA Junior and NABC finals as well as boxing for England.

“I know there will be someone to face me in the ring, but the identity will probably not be confirmed until a couple of days ahead of the fight.”

In contrast Bicester light welterweight Daza Usher can continue to focus his attention on Birmingham veteran Jason Nesbitt, who was confirmed as his opponent last week.

Tickets, priced at £35 and £60 (VIP/ringside) are available from Mullins on 07710 304212 and Usher on 07722 871785.