Jason Quigley has weighed in at 159.6lbs for his 10-round middleweight bout, against Freddy Hernandez in California on Thursday night.
Quigley will be having his second fight under trainer Dominic Ingle. The first was a win over Daniel Rosario in March.
The middleweight scene has been altered in recent weeks with Billy-Joe Saunders vacating the WBO belt and Canelo Alvarez moving up to super middleweight.
NABF middleweight title holder Quigley is hoping that a strong display against Hernandez, who has faced the likes Demetrius Andrade, who fights for the belt Saunders held on Saturday, could propel him closer to a shot at world level.
He told Highland Radio that facing the 18-year veteran is the toughest test to date: "I felt great on the scales. It’s time to get in there tonight and enjoy the whole experience. I want to perform as best I can and come out still as champion. That’s the plan.
"This lad has been to higher levels that me. He has fought for a world title. He has been in with great fighters.
"This is a step up and will be a great test. I’m 110% confident. I’m feeling good and strong.
"I see in his eyes a man that is there for the taking. I’ve sized him up. I know what I’m up against.
"I’m looking for the best performance of my professional career. There is no reason why I can’t produce it because training camp has gone really well.
"Everything has been spot on. I’m feeling fantastic. I’m very excited and looking forward to defending my title."
Quigley is expected in the ring at 3am Irish time.
