A BOXER from Thornbury is gearing up for greatness this Saturday as he looks to claim his first English title.

Umit Sucu, 38, originally from Istanbul, Turkey, and now a warehouse worker in Thornbury, will take on fellow title contender Mark Smith for the English Super Heavyweight belt in a fight.

The 106kg fighter, nicknamed "The Turkish Warrior, already holds the South West area Heavyweight and Super Heavyweight titles, despite only having boxed for the past two years.

The fight against Smith, who is more than 30kg his better, will take place in The Park community centre in Knowle, Bristol at “Best of the Best 3 Fight Night”.

Through the fight, Sucu is hoping to raise money for eight-year-old Kye Vincent, after being moved by the boy’s ongoing fight with meningitis, which has seen him lose his left hand, and both his legs.

“I saw Kye’s story online and it really touched my heart,” said Sucu.

“My own son was born premature and I know the pain of having to spend months in hospital with him while he got better.

“I am fortunate that my son was ok. I am a great believer in karma, so I try to do all the good I can to make up for that fortune.

“I am hoping to visit him in hospital before the fight, I have told him I plan to win the title for him.

“We dont have a target for how much we raise, we want people to donate as much as they can.”

He added: “White collar boxing is a fantastic way to reach out to people in support of charities like this.

“We have about 700 to 1,000 people attend per fight. It really brings all communities together.”

When asked about his plans in the ring to take the title, Sucu replied: “We have a Plan A in place, as well as a Plan B and C.

“I can’t tell you what that is though, but we are going to win.”

Contributions from ticket sales will go towards the fundraising, as well as collections on the night.

You can also make a £10 donation by texting "KYE77 £10" to 70070.