Matthew Gordon is keen to clean up as a pro
West Bromwich's Matthew Gordon won't stand for any rubbish in the professional boxing world after his debut opened his eyes to what it's all about.
The recycling entrepreneur returns to Walsall Town Hall next month after first punching for pay under the lights of the same venue in June,
The big heavyweight was made to work for a points victory over James Oliphant and felt the pace, losing the fourth and last round.
But the 30-year-old controlled much of the fight and insists he won't be found wanting again, before his next ring date on Saturday October 4.
He's waiting on an opponent for fight night, after Plymouth-based Pole Kamil Sokolowski pulled out of the contest.
But Gordon is keen to build on his opening success - whoever is on the other corner.
He said: "I loved every minute of my first fight. It gave me a proper taste of what is to come and I can't wait for more of it.
"It was everything I expected - I knew it would be tough and it was, against a good opponent. It showed me the work that's involved.
"I've had over 20 unlicensed fights, over the last four years, and four years in mixed martial arts before that.
"I'd pretty much beaten everyone on the unlicensed circuit and cleaned up there, so I thought I'd take it to the next stage.
"The level is the biggest difference between unlicensed and licensed. It's a lot harder, but that's what I'm in the sport for.
"I wanted to leave no questions unanswered and give it a go. The money's obviously a bit better but I'm not in it for that, it's for the love of the sport."
Gordon is self-employed, so can call the shots in relation to his training camp. And the popular ticket-seller attracts fans who still have a love for the heavyweight division.
He said: "Before, I was training five times a week and now that's doubled. But I work for myself, which helps with training because I can fit things around each other."
"The level is the biggest difference between unlicensed and licensed. It's a lot harder but that's what I'm in the sport for.
"I really enjoyed my debut and it's great to be back at the Town Hall. It's a lovely venue. I did a lot of tickets last time and I hope to do more this time around."
Birmingham's Paul Holt, in his first since gamely challenging for the Midlands featherweight title, tops the Town Hall bill with a six-rounder against Swindon's Joe Beeden.
The under-card also features Tom Stokes, who travels up to middleweight after 19 months out of the ring for four rounds against Hull's Joe Allon.
Super feather Jack Summers completes the trio from West Bromwich, having comfortably outpointed Qasim Hussain on his paid bow. He now takes on Leeds' Russell Midgeley.
Two debutants complete the card as Wolverhampton's Leon Brown turns over at light heavy, with Brummie Luke Walker's first punch for pay comes in the light middle division.
Both have been paired with fellow debutants, Hull's Andy Neylon for Brown while Yeovil's Bryn Wain is down to face Walker.
Tickets, priced at £30 and £60 ringside, are on sale from the Town Hall Box Office on 0845 111 2900.
