“Action” Jackson England will be looking to crown himself champion when he takes on Filipino fighter Jio Alfriando for the Australasian featherweight title in Perth next month.
The Mandurah-based boxer will be looking to take a significant step forward in his career by adding his first professional title to his name, and heads into the bout with a 5-1 record from his first six fights.
That record has helped England make a name for himself as one of Australia’s toughest up and coming prospects, a reputation he’s looking to add to at Metro City on October 5.
Standing in his way is Alfriando, a well-ranked fighter with a sharp style that England will be eager to find a weakness in.
England enters the fight on the back of an impressive win over Arief Blader just three months prior, which saw the two go the distance with the 20-year-old taking the win in a unanimous decision.
The young gun is raring to go ahead of the bout, saying it would be a huge boost to his chances at more renowned titles in the future.
“To be fighting in a title fight feels amazing and I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.
“For the boxing world to recognise me and give me this opportunity, I’m really thankful, and now I just want to return the favour and put on a good show.”
England said he would look to make the most of his punching power across the bout, which he believes could be a deciding factor.
“I think a lot of people are surprised at the power I can punch with – the guy I fought in my last fight hadn’t been hurt for a while and I was able to wobble him throughout it so if I can get that going again it will help me a lot,” he said.
“From the footage I’ve seen [Alfriando] is very sharp, but if he gets a little messy or wild I’ll weather the storm and make him pay from there.”
A win would be a huge step forward for England, who has dreams of one day challenging for world titles.
“It’s an exciting time for me,” he said.
“I know I’ve got some big dreams but for now it’s just taking it one step at a time. If I can add this Australasian title to my name I’ll be stoked.
“For now it’s all about winning, which will keep opening doors.”
England’s bout will be the semi-main event at Thunderdome 27.
For tickets to the event, visit megatix.com.au/events/thunderdome-27