BOXING: David Starie today stressed his confidence in bringing a world boxing crown back to Suffolk next month.The 28-year-old from Elmswell takes on German champ Markus Beyer for the WBC world super middleweight title in Leipzig on December 7.

By Mel Henderson

BOXING

DAVID Starie today stressed his confidence in bringing a world boxing crown back to Suffolk next month.

The 28-year-old from Elmswell takes on German champ Markus Beyer for the WBC world super middleweight title in Leipzig on December 7.

Starie can't wait to climb into the ring, insisting: "I'm in good shape and I mean to make the very most of this chance.

"I know it is going to be tough – he's an opponent who deserves total respect – but I also know I can beat him."

Part-time fireman Starie will hit the cash jackpot, with the fight due to be screened live by the BBC.

He has had an eye on a world title since his early days in the sport, when he was a member of the Hurstlea amateur club in Needham Market.

Now the reigning British and Commonwealth champion, he added: "To be the best in the world has always been an ambition of mine.

"This is a big, big opportunity. I have earned my chance and I will be giving it my very best shot."

Starie has won 30 of his 32 professional fights – 24 inside the distance, including his last nine.

He fought for the WBO world crown two years ago but was outpointed by Joe Calzaghe at the MEN Arena in Manchester.

Gordon Holmes, his manager and trainer, said: "The WBC title is the premier one. It is THE title, one we have always had in our sights. It has been going since I was boxing."

Starie should have faced Harold Roberts in Oklahoma earlier this month, but the non-title fight was cancelled as negotiations got under way for the world contest.

Holmes said: "These things take time to iron out, but it's done and dusted now and it's all systems go for Leipzig.

"David will have a lot of support out there. I know of at least 50 people who intend to fly to Germany and they are busy booking their flights.

"Beyer is a very, very good fighter and we know it isn't going to be easy. He was the WBC champion before and is anxious to regain his title."

Starie's big chance has come about because of illness to reigning champ Eric Lucas of Canada, who has been laid low with thyroid trouble.

Holmes said: "This is an interim title. Lucas was to defend his title, but the WBC didn't want it to be frozen for too long.

"The deal now is that David takes on Beyer and the winner will meet Lucas when he's fit and able.

"In a way, David's chance has come out of the blue. But we knew we there or thereabouts and we're ready.

"I have about seven or eight videos of Beyer that David and I will be studying. We will make sure we know his every move.

"I'll even know what colour socks he puts on when he gets up in the morning!"