Walsall Football Club

The pair are familiar foes having fought four times as amateurs and will now touch gloves in the professional ranks at the Banks’s Stadium, home of Walsall Football Club, on 4th September.

Keates recorded three wins over Paddock in their amateur days but knows it will be his biggest challenge yet to dethrone the champion. 

“I’m expecting a very good fight,” admitted the 24-year old. “Luke’s a good lad and of course we both know each other as well. 

“I know this is one of my hardest fights but I think it’s one of Luke’s hardest fights so it all comes down to what happens on the night. 

“It’s going to be a toe-to-toe war and it will bring the best out of me. I had the edge on him in the amateurs. He beat me once and I beat him three times."

The Leek-born fighter will travel to the home of Walsall FC knowing there will be a hostile reception awaiting him. 

The 9-2 lightweight lost a points decision to Bristol’s Dan Stewart in his last outing and is looking to make amends in what he describes as his “biggest fight” to date. 

“I know this is a huge fight and training is going really well,” he added. “I’ve got a game plan but I’m not going to give anything away. 

“I’ve done all the preparation I can, so it all comes down to what happens on the night. 

“If I can perform as well as I know I can then hopefully the belt is coming home with me. “It’s going to be exciting to fight at a football stadium and I just want to get in the ring now.” 

Old Hill lightweight, Manny Zaber, is also in action on the Black Country Boxing promoted show as he goes in search of his second win as a professional. 

Cheltenham light heavyweight, Scott Gibbins Jr, and Ludlow light middleweight, Craig Morris, complete the card. VIP Ringside tickets have SOLD OUT for the event. 

General admission tickets are £30 and can be purchased by calling 07817 644 429.