DANNY Bharj is hoping the birth of his pro career will signal the start of a long journey towards facing one of his heroes.

The England international joined Keith Mayo’s Horseshoe Gym stable recently and could face his first bout at the promoter’s latest show at MECA in Regent Circus on March 5.

There are many in the local boxing scene who have high hopes for the former double ABA junior lightweight (60kg) champion, and the 22-year-old himself admitted the thought of going toe-to-toe with his idols was spurring him on already.

“I used to watch professionals like Floyd Mayweather and Sugar Ray Leonard when I was younger and I wanted to emulate them,” lightweight Bharj revealed.

“Amir Khan was speaking about (Marco Antonio) Barrera and he said when he was younger he watched him, and he ended up boxing him.

“So you never know, people I look up to, I could end up boxing them one day. I don’t want to call out any names yet, it’s a bit early for that, but hopefully in a couple of years I might box them.”

The decision to pen a pro deal with Mayo was ultimately an easy one for Bharj, despite interest from other camps outside his home town.

“Keith’s been watching me since I was an amateur, since I was probably about 15 or 16,” revealed Bharj.

“There was a few people sniffing around but I signed mainly because he’s based in Swindon and promotes in Swindon.

“My home’s here and the gym is five minutes from my house. The time was right and Keith put the best deal forward.”

Now Bharj admits he can’t wait to get his pro career up and running in earnest, culminating in his possible debut bout at MECA next month, and he has even revealed his ambitions in the longer term.

“I’m definitely looking forward to getting in shape and hopefully making a mark in the pros,” he said.

“I want to go as far as my potential can take me, and obviously I’m hoping for big things. I wouldn’t have turned pro if I didn’t think I could win a title.

“I’m hoping after the first 18 months to maybe get an area (title) shot and after that maybe the British title, and then move on from there.

“But obviously I’ll take it one fight at a time.”

Tickets for the March 5 MECA bill start at £30 with a VIP package also available at £60. Contact Keith Mayo on 07789 890453, any of the boxers or order online at www.kmpromotions.co.uk.