Gavin next fights in London in February against Peter McDonagh

Birmingham light-welterweight Frankie Gavin says he is delighted with the progress he is making as a fighter since he turned professional.

Former world amateur champion Gavin, 24, is unbeaten in five bouts and is next in action in February in London.

"I've improved so much in the last year power-wise and moving my head. It's all coming good," Gavin told BBC WM.

"There were some critics saying have I got the power and now I'm shutting them up. I've had a really good 2009."

Gavin was nearly taken the distance for the first time as a pro before knocking out Frenchman Samir Tergaoui in the sixth and final round in Newcastle in December.

Tergaoui had never been stopped before and Gavin says he learnt a lot from the bout.

"He was a really tough, durable fighter and you need someone who's going to take you the rounds," he said.

I've been told I'm going to be fighting for titles this year - that's what I want. Former world amateur champion Frankie Gavin

"I really would've struggled against him if I'd faced him on my debut," he said.

"It was a really good experience to be in with someone like that. I need to get the rounds in because soon I won't be able to blow people away in championship fights."

Gavin next faces Irishman Peter McDonagh and is determined to extend his record ahead of a fight back in his home city.

"I've been told April in Birmingham so hopefully that's what they're going to do," he added.

"I've been told I'm going to be fighting for titles this year - that's what I want."

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