Brad Pauls says a successful defence of his IBF International middleweight title could move him closer to a long-awaited world title opportunity as he prepares to face Bradley Goldsmith this weekend.
The 33-year-old Cornish boxer will defend his belt against Goldsmith on Saturday at Southampton’s St Mary’s Stadium. The bout forms part of the undercard for the world title clash between Ryan Garner and Michael Magnesi.
Pauls enters the contest on the back of one of the biggest wins of his career. In March, he stopped previously unbeaten Shakiel Thompson to claim the vacant IBF International middleweight title and strengthen his position in the world rankings.
With the IBF world middleweight championship currently vacant, Pauls believes another victory could significantly improve his standing. Ranked eighth by the governing body, he knows a successful title defence may place him firmly in the conversation for a future world title fight.
Despite the potential rewards, Pauls remains focused on the task immediately ahead. He acknowledged that Goldsmith presents a serious challenge and stressed that any ambitions beyond Saturday depend entirely on securing the win.
Goldsmith, 27, brings an impressive record into the contest, having suffered just one defeat in 16 professional fights. Pauls described his opponent as a complete and dangerous boxer, expecting a demanding test in the ring.
The fight also carries personal significance for the Newquay fighter. Nicknamed the “Newquay Bomb,” Pauls rarely gets the opportunity to compete so close to home and expects strong backing from travelling Cornish supporters.
A large crowd from Cornwall is expected to make the journey to Southampton, creating a lively atmosphere as Pauls looks to add another important victory to his record.
Currently holding a professional record of 21 wins, two defeats and one draw, Pauls sees the bout as another key step in his career progression. He believes fighting in Southampton is a rare chance to perform in front of fans from the South West and was an opportunity he could not afford to turn down.
With a title defence, a higher ranking and the possibility of a future world championship shot all on the line, Pauls heads into Saturday’s contest determined to keep his momentum going and take another step toward boxing’s biggest stage.