"IT will definitely be a win, I can tell you that."

These are the words of boxer Michael Fafera, who has signed his first professional contract and will make his debut on the pro stage in September – against an opponent to be confirmed this week.

The Huntington-based fighter recently put pen to paper with the established York boxing manager Glenn Banks after only three years of boxing.

Despite being relatively new to the ring, light heavyweight Fafera has racked up an impressive 15 wins from 16 contests on the European Boxing Federation semi-professional circuit.

In March, he brought home a £10,000 prize after belying his underdog status to win the Cashfighter competition in Leicester with three straight victories against experienced fighters such as Martin Concepcion.

Fafera - who trains at the TSM Boxing Club on Boroughbridge Road under Steve Melton - has been preparing extensively for the event, adding into his regular routine early morning runs and sparring three times a week with professional boxers across the country, which is a substantial increase in workload for the 23-year-old.

He said: "I'm absolutely buzzing. I can't to see what the next step is and see how far I can get with it.

"I had the chance to turn professional before the Cashfighter but I fought it to see where I stood - if I didn't get far enough, I probably wouldn't have signed yet and left it a little while.

"It's a lot of work. I've had to drop all my hours at work to train twice a day. It's a lot of effort, but it'll be worth it.

"Not a lot of people get this far. For me to win this fight and make a statement would be great.

"I'm going to put 110 per cent into it and make a fool of this kid. It will definitely be a win, I can tell you that."

Around 100 tickets have already been sold to watch Fafera's full professional bow, which will take place at Elland Road banqueting suite on Friday, September 7. Standard tickets cost £40.

A spokesperson for Fafera said: "(He) is looking forward to his professional boxing journey. Michael is in full camp and has bolstered his training to ensure his debut is a successful one," and added: "Banks is excited and proud that Michael and Steve chose and trusted him to guide his professional boxing career."

For tickets, phone Fafera on 07543 335695, Melton on 07943 453638 or Banks on 07842 464466.