“HE'S dangerous. He’s knocked out 13 of his opponents and he’s going to try and test my chin. One of us isn’t going to hear the final bell,” says Taunton’s Pawel August who defends his undefeated record on Saturday night.

The unbeaten light heavyweight returns to the ring against German challenger Aro Schwartz in his native Poland this Saturday. Southpaw Schwartz, who is on a four fight winning streak of his own, will provide August with his toughest test to date.

“He’s a live opponent, make no mistake about that. He’s got plenty of KO’s on his record. His record suggests he carries power. I need to be at my best, I need to stay switched on. On paper he's a problem but a problem I'll solve - I can’t wait to get in there again.”

Contractual issues prevented August from boxing for over a year. With the problems outside the ring now resolved, the 27-year-old is ready to put on a show after shaking some ring rust off last time out.

“In Bristol in May it was good to get the win, it was my first fight in a long, long time. It was good to get used to being back in the ring, not just physically but mentally. This time I'm more prepared and with the TV cameras watching, I've got an extra incentive to deliver.”

A national broadcaster in Poland has picked up the rights to the light heavyweight showdown, a sign of August’s star rising. Somerset’s leading fighter embraces the high profile challenge.

“The weigh-in the day before will be on TV. The fight is going to be televised, so it gives you more of a buzz. It’s exciting. I’m ready to put on an explosive performance. The bigger the fight, the more confidence I have, the more I want to entertain and showcase my potential.”

The 27-year-old, who had his early talent nurtured at Taunton and Hamilton Green ABC, has ambitions of breaking into the world rankings and defending his WBC international title. Coming through Saturday night will be another step towards fulfilling his promise.

“All roads lead to a big, big fight if I can deal with the German in good fashion. 100 percent I'm winning this fight - and then the only way is up.”

“Thanks also to my long term partners Growth Technology, Intense Nutrients, Brendan Roofing JMR Home Improvements, DJF Transport Demenagement and fight Sponsor P & P Autos. Trusted local businesses that make it all possible.”

Words by Marc Gatford.