HEAVYWEIGHT Noureddine Meddoune, the latest signing to the Horseshoe Gym stable, has a tough opponent awaiting him on Saturday night at the MECA.

Facing him is Hastings Rasani – the durable Birmingham-based Zimbabwean who has twice challenged for a Commonwealth title during an 83-fight career that has spanned 14 years.

But it is a challenge that the adopted Swindonian is relishing as his first fight in the town he has made his home.

Meddoune said: “I do not know very much about him – the match was made late on Monday night so I have not studied his record in too much detail.

“But the fact that he has boxed for a Commonwealth title means he has to be respected.”

Now the heavyweight clash is in place, promoter Keith Mayo has completed the line-up for his first event in Swindon in almost a year.

And he is certain that the big Moroccan will become a firm favourite with local fight fans.

Mayo said: “When you see this boy in action in the gym, you become immediately impressed with both his power and athleticism.

“And he more than proved that in his first outing in a British ring at Chester just before Christmas – he saw off his rival very quickly.

“But there is more than just power in Noureddine’s arsenal – he is also a stylish boxer who likes to deliver the full range of shots from his armoury.

“We thought we had an opponent lined up for him a fortnight ago, but the guy was injured in training and had to pull out before he even had a chance to sign the contract.

“The same thing happened with two more possible opponents and it looked like the clock was going to beat us.

“But thankfully Hastings became available and Noureddine now has the chance to show the Wiltshire boxing public what he can do.”

Swindon-born Liam Richards tackles Walsall’s Steve Gethin for the vacant British Masters super featherweight title in the 10-round main event.

And he is joined by local prospects Kelvin Young, Andrew McCaffrey and debutant Craig Leadbeater. Newport’s Lee Churcher faces Lincolnshire-based Ryan Clark to complete the card.

Tickets for Saturday’s MECA bill start at £30 with a VIP package also available. Contact Keith Mayo on 07789 890453, any of the boxers or order online at www.kmpromotions.co.uk.