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New Zealand heavyweight boxer Shane Cameron is preparing to step into the ring again, with African American fighter Terry Smith confirmed as his next opponent.
Cameron's manager Ken Reinsfield confirmed Smith would face Cameron in a Christchurch fight next month.
Smith, 37, leads the Aucklander in experience, having fought opponents such as heavyweight legends Jemeel McCline and Calvin Brock. He hosts a professional record of 36 fights for 30 wins, five losses and a draw.
However, Reinsfield said that with the solid form 30-year-old Cameron had shown in recent months, his man would give Smith a good fight.
"(Smith) has a lot of experience, he's fought world title contenders ... he's never been knocked out in 36 fights, so he's a very tough opponent - but we're looking for a win absolutely," Reinsfield said.
Cameron's Wellington win over American opponent Kevin Montiy in June brought his record to 21-1 and emphasised his escalating international status.
The fight moved him to number eight on the World Boxing Organisation ranking list and 15th on the International Boxing Federation list.
However, Reinsfield said Cameron's growing success appeared to be somewhat of a double-edged sword, with fights becoming increasingly expensive to host.
"Every fight gets more expensive because the quality of the opponent gets up. It's an expensive process, but it's really great that Shane's bringing these fighters round," Reinsfield said.
"The idea is really to bring world class boxing to New Zealand, and that's what we're doing."
The Southern Crusade clash takes place at the Christchurch Town Hall on September 27.
- NZPA
