Charlie Edwards’ rapid rise to fight for the English flyweight title at the O2 Arena tonight has come as no surprise to the man himself.
The 22-year-old from Croydon only made his professional debut nine months ago but finds himself on the biggest stage and in the biggest fight of his fledging career against Louis Norman.
After winning his first two four-round fights by knock-out and his next two six-round fights on points, Edwards steps up to 10 rounds in only his fifth professional fight tonight but is not fazed.
“It feels great, I pushed for this,” he said.
“I could have taken easier routes and fought journeymen but I’m not about that, I want a step up.
“I want my career to move forwards and the only way you can do that is by taking these risks and beating people.”
In Norman he faces his toughest test. Since making his debut in 2012, the 21-year-old has racked up an impressive ten wins and one draw, claiming the English flyweight title along the way.
“He’s a good kid, he’s English champion but he’s got all the pressure on him, I’ve got no pressure,” said Edwards.
“I’m coming to take his title away from him, I’ve got the confidence. I’ve seen him time and time again and I feel like I’ve got his number.”
The European Championship bronze medalist returns to the place where he made his debut and sees that experience as another reason to favour himself.
“The experience was great and it’s put me in good stead for this fight,” he said.
“I’ve been there, been backstage, walked out to a packed O2 crowd, so that’s all an advantage for me.
“It’s like my home arena really with the amount of support I’m going to have from the area.”
Feature image of Charlie Edwards, left, and Louis Norman, right, courtesy of iFL TV, via Youtube, with thanks
