CARDIGAN boxer Ben Rees-Davies will compete on a Cardigan ABC show for the first time in six years when he takes on Swansea's Angelo Dragone (Premier ABC) at Crymych Leisure Centre on Friday night (January 29).

The 23-year-old light-welterweight – a lance-corporal in the Welsh Regiment – will be taking his first step along a road he hopes will take him all the way to the Welsh 140lbs title.

“Crymych is absolutely massive for me because I want to show people what a Cardi fighter can do – even if I'm wearing the Army strip,” said Rees-Davies, a member of the British Army boxing team since September.

“I should have a fair amount of support as I'm told two busloads are coming up from Cardigan.

“I'm quite friendly with Angelo having known him since we were both juniors and we've sparred many times.

“He's a come-forward type that likes to get in there and have a scrap. I'm much better technically than he is and aim to show that on the night.

“Whatever happens, it's going to be a good fight. I'm aiming to win the Welsh title this season and Angelo and myself will probably meet again further down the line.”

The Aldershot-based soldier, who has won 50 of his 78 bouts, is relishing life as part of the Army's elite boxing squad.

“We've got our own accommodation, our own facilities and train three times a day,” he said. “I'm absolutely loving it – it's like being a member of Team GB.”

Another high-quality bout is assured when Crymych's 14-year-old Ioan Croft – the reigning British and Welsh champion – is pitted against Lennox Gill, of Portsmouth's Golden Ring ABC.

Twin brother Garan – also ranked highly in the Welsh and British rankings – also appears along with clubmates Adam Lawrence and Cai Llewellyn, from Letterston, Scott Beynon (Cilgerran), Joe O'Sullivan (Fishguard), Corey Hayes (Crymych) and Tom Morris (Mathry).

The show begins at 7.30pm. Entry (£10 adults; £5 under-16s) on the door.