RISING boxing star Sahir Iqbal is hoping to shine in front of a home crowd tonight.

The unbeaten welterweight, who has won five out of five as a professional, will take on durable veteran Kevin McCauley at the Bolton Whites Hotel.

The 23-year-old is aiming for a rapid rise up the rankings after a fine amateur career and is now working with a new trainer in Johnney Roye after former cornerman Oliver Harrison passed away.

“I’m going in there with the intent to take my opponent out, as well as showing my skills,” said Iqbal.

“I’ve been boxing since the age of nine and I won five national titles and five GB titles along with a European silver medal. I’ve won gold in many Box Cups including getting the best boxer award at the Haringey Box Cup.

“After this fight I’ll sit down with Johnny Roye and the team and discuss the options going forward but I want to keep going up the rankings.

“It’s all about reaching the end goal of a world title, so whatever it takes to get there I’ll do.”

The MTK Global show, which also features Bolton-based Irishman Liam Gaynor, is live on YouTube channel iFL TV.