Colm Murphy admits the road hasn't been easy in his journey towards title success - but insists he has earned his right to fight for glory.
The unbeaten Belfast prospect returns to the ring on Saturday, July 1 in the Mark Dunlop promoted 'Close Encounter' bill at the Europa Hotel.
Murphy takes on Liam Gaynor in an intriguing rematch, less than eight months after the 23-year-old won the BUI Celtic featherweight title at Belfast's Girdwood Centre.
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Next month both men step up to super-featherweight to challenge for the vacant Irish title, and Murphy is confident of becoming a two-weight champion.
And he believes victory will be reward for the sacrifices he has put in during his fledgling career, and payback to promoter Dunlop who continues to present these big opportunities for his fighters.
"I am very proud to represent this area ( South Belfast ) in boxing. Without the support of people here I wouldn't be where I am today," Murphy said.
"Two years ago I made my debut at the Europa, and now I have the chance to fight for the Irish title. Mark Dunlop has delivered on every promise he has made to me.
"Now I have to deliver back, and bring the Irish title back to South Belfast. It means a lot to me to fight for an Irish title.
"I have had a lot of ups and downs on this road to get here, but I have stayed resilient and earned my way.
"There are great boxing superstars Mark has signed, like James Tennyson and Eric Donovan who won the Irish title and then went on to have spectacular careers.
"And hopefully I can bring the title home."
Promoter Dunlop expects another close fight, following last year's points win for Murphy.
He said: "The first fight between the two guys was a close encounter, and that's why we have named this show 'Close Encounter'.
"I think over the last 12 months Colm has really improved and physically matured. He has grown into the super-featherweight division.
"The extra four pounds will make a huge difference on the night, and the extra rounds. In saying that, Liam Gaynor also has the extra four pounds and two rounds, so I think we are in for a cracking fight on the night."
Tickets for the July 1 show at Europa Hotel are available from Eventbrite - you can find out more information HERE
The undercard features fighters including Conor Quinn, Owen O'Neill, Emet Brennan and Gerard Hughes.
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