Junior Witter will be driven on to British title glory tonight by the fear of seeing his career left in ruins.

Bradford light-welterweight Witter starts as the massive favourite against local lad Alan Bosworth in Northampton's sold-out Derngate Centre.

But Witter is taking absolutely nothing for granted in his bid for the domestic belt. He has too much to lose from an upset defeat.

Witter said: "If I don't win this fight then the five years I've put in might as well be screwed up and throw in the bin. The bit of credibility and respect that I have will be rubbish.

"And also the people I want to get in the ring with, who are trying to avoid me, will have the reason they want to not to have to fight."

Witter feels in perfect condition both physically and mentally, having studied videos of Bosworth's last three fights.

He was particularly impressed with the win over Daniel James in the title eliminator which earned the 34-year-old journeyman tonight's shot at glory.

"He dictated the pace, controlled the fight and pretty much did what he wanted to," said Witter. "He was getting stronger as the rounds went on.

"But he isn't going to be able to do that with me. I'm going to be the one who is in control tonight and he won't be able to do anything about it."

A hostile 1,500 crowd will be cheering Bosworth to the rafters. Witter has only a pocket of fans - although half of them are very close at hand.

"I've sold 35 at ringside so although he'll have the rest of the place, I'll own the ring!

"But the noise and atmosphere will bring out the best in Bosworth. He knows he can make a lot of money if he wins this, and the supporters will give him that extra impetus."

If it boils down to guts and sheer determination, then Bosworth shouldn't be dismissed lightly.

The Northampton brawler said: "This is my last chance and my only one. I'll be giving it all I've got and won't leave that ring until there is absolutely nothing left.

"I'm a huge underdog but I've earned this title shot. I wasn't expected to beat James in his backyard but I stopped him - and I'm ready for Witter.

"Upsets can happen in this game."