Will Webb be king against the Prince?

Stylish Sam Webb returns in his first outing of the year at Gillingham's Medway Park leisure centre this Friday when headlining in the second defence of his British light middleweight title against mandatory challenger Prince Arron.

The 30 year-old Swanley man won the title last year when he out-smarted controversial figure Anthony Small and then successfully defended it with an emphatic display and stoppage over Leicester banger Martin Concepcion last October. Those two performances caught the eye as Webb showcased his impressive skills and intelligent ring craft and he is keen to continue in similar fashion against Manchester's former Prizefighter winner.

Webb prepares meticulously for his contests under the tutorship of Alan Smith and carefully maintains his discipline by keeping his weight in check between fights. As close and admired friend Ryan Rhodes draws near to his date with world title destiny on June 18th (when he challenges WBC champion Saul Alvarez) Webb could soon be propelling towards the Sheffield master’s old European belt currently owned by Lucas Konecny. But his present and primary ambition remains winning a much coveted Lonsdale belt outright which will be just one more win away if he can dispatch of a vastly improved and highly dangerous opponent.

Now in his sixth year as a professional Webb (17-1) has made a steady rise to prominence and surprised many when he outpointed Small via a majority decision. Webb who oozes class both in and outside the ring isn’t one for trash talking but prefers channeling his energy during intense training sessions which include running with a tyre tied around his neck. Sam who recently shunned a shot at the European crown could later reflect that wisdom as he gains vital experience before he advances beyond domestic supremacy.

Both Webb and the 23 year-old Arron assert they have the beating of their opponent so fans in Kent and Sky Sports viewers at home should be treated to a memorable night. Webb at his best will prove to be the king as his punch accuracy and solid defence prove to be the telling factors but anything below his high standard will see an equally elusive and talented Prince crowned. Arron (20-3-1) has advanced in the professional ranks despite early career set backs when he was over matched and stopped by Anthony Small and John Duddy and has chalked up 11 consecutive victories. 

A potential candidate for domestic fight of the year looms.