Junior Witter is set to explode on to the big stage as he launches his world title bid in front of around 60,000 fight fans in Glasgow tonight.

The 26-year-old takes on American southpaw Zab Judah for the IBF light-welterweright belt on the undercard to Mike Tyson's high-profile heavyweight battle with Lou Savar-ese at Hampden Park.

Both fights will be screened live on a pay-per-view basis in Britain and across the Atlantic on Showtime television as the Americans get their first sight of the former Bradford Police Boys boxer.

And with a first defence against former champion Terron Millett already lined up in America for August 5, Witter knows more than anyone how crucial his performance could be for his career.

"The fight is for a major world title and it will be seen all over the world so I can't wait to get into the ring," he said.

"It will be by far the biggest event I have ever been to, let alone fought in, so it should be a special night."

But his latest opponent, who was due to fight Jason Rowland until the British champion pulled out with a knee injury, will provide a much sterner test of his 17-fight unbeaten record.

The New Yorker is undefeated in 24 contests with 20 knockouts to his name and took the title by seeing off Jan Bergman - who Witter beat on points 18 months ago - after Millett was forced to give up his title following a lengthy lay-off through injury.

And the British challenger was under no illusions as to the size of the task ahead.

"I rate Zab very highly. He's a good champion with a lot of power and good straight shots so I know I have a real fight on my hands," he said.

"But he's my style of boxer and I have to go there and be Junior Witter. It will take a few rounds and a lot depends on how he holds up against my power but I'm confident I can win.

"I have never been taken the distance by anyone before but I'm prepared if it goes that far. I have done a lot of 12-rounders in sparring and I feel I know what it's like, although it's always different under fight conditions."

Trainer John Ingle said that with the worldwide exposure the event was getting, a win for Witter would see his career take off.

"If he beats this guy then the world's his oyster," he said.

"He's second on the bill after Tyson and his fight is being beamed all over the world so this is a great chance for him to show what he can do. Hopefully people will see that he's a good fighter and deserves more recognition.

"They are both good fighters with similar styles. Judah's a good power puncher whereas Junior's a more accurate hitter but if Junior's going to win it will take at least eight or nine rounds."

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