LIAM Richards insists a strict dieting regime will be worth the effort if it helps him lift the English super-bantamweight title tonight.

The Melksham fighter takes on the unbeaten Ryan Walsh at Bethnal Green’s York Hall aiming to emulate Nick Blackwell, his stablemate at Trowbridge’s Contender Gym, as a national champion.

It will be the third different weight that Richards has boxed at in his 11-fight career to date, but the first time he has stepped down to the 8st 10lb category.

“That’s been the biggest challenge,’’ said the 25-year-old, who will be backed by a coachload of support from Wiltshire as he takes on Norfolk’s Walsh, who has won all 12 of his contests so far.

“I’ve never been below nine stone before and it has meant a very strict diet. I can’t wait for Saturday morning so I can have some of the things I like."

“I’m absolutely buzzing for this fight, not nervous. These sort of fights are the reason I came into boxing.

“I’m the underdog and he (Walsh) is probably the best opponent I’ve been up against, but the whole thing is going to be exciting.’’

Fight coverage is on the BoxNation Channel (Sky 456).