Magee will face a tough test against Vincent

The bout at Cardiff Ice Rink will be on the undercard of the Enzo Maccarinelli fight and will avail Magee to realise his ambition to become a world champion.

Magee was defeated on a tight points decision by Ricky Hatton for the WBO light-welterweight title in 2002.

Last June Magee also lost a decision in Germany to Oktay Urkal for a European title.

Magee's manager Mike Callahan and promoter Frank Warren were quick to negotiate the fight with Vincent following the withdrawal of former British champion Neil Sinclair because of illness.

It will mean Magee stepping up a division but his camp believes that he can handle that move.

At present Magee is weighing in at about 10st 13lbs, six pounds over the welterweight limit, but coach John Breen believes that is perfect.

''Yesterday's deal could not have fitted better into their preparations,'' he said.

He is naturally very strong, a very hard puncher and I'm totally confident Magee's coach John Breen

''Eamonn has to make 10st 7lbs which allows him an extra half-stone not to shed this time.

''Anyway, by the time he goes into the ring on any fight night he's at 11 stone so the change in weight will suit him fine.

''The move up to welter will not be a problem. He is naturally very strong, a very hard puncher and I'm totally confident that his power and all-round ability will be good enough.''

Manager Callahan was obviously happy to get an unexpected opportunity to fight for a world title.

''We are delighted with this wonderful opportunity for Eamonn,'' said Callahan.

''His coach and myself fully believe that Eamonn's time has come and that he has all the skills to beat Vincent.''