Rees Fit And Ready For Matthews European Title Defense

Gavin Rees says he is in perfect shape as he prepares to defend his European Lightweight title against Derry Mathews at the Newport Centre tomorrow night, live on Sky Sports.

Rees claimed the title in April with a points win over previously unbeaten Irishman Andy Murray and the 31 year-old believes that if he can defend the belt against the Liverpudlian he will close in on a World title shot.

The Newbridge star held the WBA Light-Welterweight crown in 2007 and after starting afresh under new trainer Gary Lockett and he believes that he is ready to top the World once again.

“I’m feeling fantastic ahead of the fight, I cannot wait to get in there,” said Rees at today’s weigh-in at Tredegar House in Newport. “This is probably the best I’ve felt before a fight before and I think people will see the best of me tomorrow night. Derry’s a good fighter and a tough guy but I’m not going to let this title go as I can smell another World title shot.”

Rees tipped the scales at 9st 8lb 3oz, with the 27 year-old challenger a shade heavier at 9st 8lb 5oz. Mathews is bringing a strong support from Merseyside tomorrow on a big day for the city with Everton and Liverpool facing each other at lunchtime, and Mathews believes he can pull off a shock to cap the day.

“I don’t have a problem being the underdog, I’d prefer people to underestimate me,” said Mathews. “I’m fresh, I’m confident and I know I will cause Gavin big problems tomorrow. It’s going to be a great fight and I know I’m going to take that belt back to Liverpool.”

A limited number of tickets for Gavin Rees vs. Derry Mathews plus a full undercard will be available on the door at the Newport Centre tomorrow priced £30 – doors open at 6pm.