Belfast middleweight, Alfredo Meli [10(3)-0], is aiming to put the disappointment of his cancelled Irish title fight behind him by winning the Celtic Nations belt at the weekend.

The 25 year old southpaw was due to face Westmeath’s JJ McDonagh for the Irish super middleweight title in May, but the bout fell through after McDonagh had issues making the 164lb catchweight.

Meli now has a new opportunity to win his first professional belt at the Féile an Phobail in West Belfast on Saturday. He faces tough Scot, Rhys Pagan [13(3)-2(1)], in the most challenging fight of career thus far.

Speaking to the Belfast Newsletter about the new opportunity, Meli admits that “I was gutted when the Irish title fight was called off at the last minute, but now I get the chance to get back fighting.”

“Preparation and training has gone really well and I want to show local fight fans what I have to offer.”

The Belfast man is confident ahead of the bout in the Falls Park, noting that “Pagan has a good record and this will be a test for me – but I am ready for whatever he brings on the night.”

“This win would move me to 11 wins and no losses, so I will be looking to move upwards from now on.”