The 17-year-old, from Welling, jets off next week to take part in a multi-nation competition and hopes a successful bout will mean selection for the Juniors World Cup, in Poland later this year.

It has already been a tremendous season for the young star who was featured in the News Shopper earlier this year after successfully defending his ABA title at the Youth Amateur Boxing Championships.

He also returned from the NABC Championships in Birmingham with a gold medal.

Matthew's proud dad said: "We are all delighted for him because he has worked very hard to get where he is now.

"Hopefully, he will put up a good show and be selected for the World Cup. I'm sure he is going to pick up a gold. It has already been a fantastic year for him and he is on the verge of making it big-time."

Matthew, who was awarded best winner and most courageous fighter at the Youth Amateur Boxing Championships earlier this year, trains with the West Ham Amateur Boxing Club. His ambitions are to win the senior ABA title and then turn professional.