LUKE Watkins believes the upward trajectory of his professional career will ensure nothing fazes him in his biggest fight so far later this week.

Swindon’s Commonwealth cruiserweight champion Watkins takes on up-and-coming British rival Lawrence Okolie on Wednesday, with the 2016 Olympian’s WBA Continental crown also on the line.

The bout is the headline contest on a show arranged by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom promotion group and takes place live on Sky Sports at the iconic York Hall in London.

Watkins is no stranger to high-profile fights, with his last three all being for belts and in front of television cameras.

The 28-year-old was crowned Irish cruiserweight champion with victory over Ian Tims last June before winning then defending the Commonwealth strap against Robin Dupre and Mike Stafford in October and December respectively.

Heading to the capital with an unblemished 13-0 record, Watkins’ past successes have given him belief that he can end Okolie’s own unbeaten start to his career.

“Everything in preparation for this, everything I have done in my professional career has put me in good stead for where I am right now,” said Watkins.

“The only difference is the opponent. I have topped a bill, I have fought live on TV, I have defended a title.

“Now I am doing all those things again but just against a different opponent.”

The bout against Okolie is exactly the type of platform Watkins and trainer Paddy Fitzpatrick have been looking for, and have no doubt it can lead to brighter things ahead.

“Win or lose, it is going to move my career in a completely different direction,” said Watkins.

“I believe I am on the right path already, but this fight will push me further along that path.

“Right now, I can’t comment on where that might lead – I am fully focussed on Lawrence. He is the task at hand and the obstacle I have to overcome, and then I will go from there.”

With less than three days to go until fight night, Watkins says no more planning and preparation is required, with this final stretch simply about keeping his emotions in check.

“All the work has been done and now it is about fine-tuning,” said Watkins.

“There are a couple of pounds I need to get off, but I am a very sensible person when it comes to diet and nutrition.

“In these last few days it is about conserving the emotions and not getting ahead of myself.”