TAUNTON’S Pawel Augustynik faces the biggest test of his boxing credentials so far this Saturday (February 29), with a fight that offers him the chance to launch his career to new heights - and make history.

Augustynik is challenging Jordan Joseph for the vacant Southern Area title in Bristol and, should he win, he would become the first Taunton boxer to claim the coveted belt.

The 24-year-old has been pushing himself to the limit in training so that, when he enters the ring on Saturday, he will be in peak condition.

Augustynik told the County Gazette: “I’ve been in an eight-week training camp for this fight, five days a week.

“I’ve worked on a bit of everything [fitness, tactics and mental preparation], but the intensity has gone up.

“Going 10 rounds is a new experience for me, so the training intensity increases.”

He added: “I feel ready; I’ve been waiting for this opportunity since turning professional three years ago.

“I’m ready to produce my best performance.

“I’ve learned a lot in the last three years, training every day and improving a lot.

“Two years ago I wouldn’t have been ready to fight for this title, but I’m ready now.”

The Taunton boxer remains unbeaten up to this point, defeating 10 opponents in two years, but Joseph represents a step-up in quality.

The Londoner has won eight contests and has fought live on both Sky and BT Sport.

Augustynik admits that Joseph has the edge when it comes to experience, but believes he can beat him.

“He is more experienced, he’s been here before - he fought for this title but lost,” he said.

“He had more ring experience as a professional.

“But I think I have the speed, power and aggression [to cause him problems].”

Augustynik expects to bring a “big army” of around 150 people to Bristol, and said: “[My fans] are very important, I’m really happy with the support that I have.

“When I first turned pro I didn’t expect to have the support I do now.”

The Taunton contender is also aware of how big Saturday could be for his career, saying: “Winning would open doors for me, and give me more opportunities for bigger things.

“[The chance to make history] is an extra motivation, as no-one from Taunton had won a pro title.

“I want to be the first from Taunton to win this belt.”