Enzo Maccarinelli's latest title defence could have earned him a shot at WBO cruiserweight king Johnny Nelson. The Welshman destroyed Rich LaMontagne inside four rounds on Friday night in the sixth defence of his WBU belt.
Nelson, watching from ringside, was impressed: "The public are asking for this, so we've got to get it on.
"The mistake people think I'm going to make is underestimate Enzo; he's tough, he's young, I'm getting older. Let's get this fight on as soon as possible."
Nelson, 38, is seeking one last huge test in the twilight of a great career, and a contest against the 24-year-old challenger from Swansea could provide a career-defining fight for both of them.
"That's the fight I've been after, and everyone knows the reason why," Maccarinelli said.
"I think I am ready. Everyone knows how highly I regard the man; he's a great man and a great champion.
"But this boxing game is about being given a chance, and I'd like to have a chance."
Maccarinelli was certainly a class above American challenger LaMontagne at the Bridgend Leisure Centre.
LaMontagne is regarded as a dangerous puncher but had no answer to the champion's power as he was dropped to the canvas twice in the opening round and again in the third.
"I'll probably have to improve on that performance," Maccarinelli admitted. "But if I get my chance (against Nelson) I know I'll give it my 100% shot - and when I get the chance I will take it.
"But just power won't beat Johnny, Johnny is too clever for that.
"Obviously we'll work on things in the gym, we'll talk about it. If the time comes we'll sit down and have a chat and work on strategy."
MMIX
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