GELASIUS Taaru has warned Britain’s top featherweights: "I’m coming for you.”

The 24-year-old from Reading continues his apprenticeship in professional boxing with his fifth fight at the York Hall in Bethnal Green on Saturday.

Taaru is still learning his trade – but is convinced he’s going to the top.

“There are some good fighters at my weight,” he said, “but with a bit more experience under my belt, I will be able to take them on.

“I don’t believe the gap between me and the British champion (Ryan Walsh) is that big, but he has more experience than me.

“He’s been a pro a lot longer and has fought over the championship distance, while I’m still working my way up.

“Once I have the experience, I can beat these people, 100 per cent I believe that. I just have to get some rounds under my belt and work my way up to that level."

Manager Mickey Helliet may struggle to find opponents who can take Taaru a few rounds. Of his first four opponents, three have been thrashed inside three rounds and Helliet considers Taaru to be one of the most exciting prospects on his books.

Taaru says he will be the next boxing star to come out of Reading.

He said: “It looks like Tamuka (Mucha) is going to fight for the British title next and Asinia (Byfield) isn’t far away.

“I’m the next one coming through from Reading, definitely. I’m maturing all the time, I’m getting stronger. Give it two years and I will be unstoppable.”

Also fighting on the same card is fellow Reading fighter Konrad Stempkowski.

The 34-year-old has compiled a 7-0 record under Helliet, and says he’s hungry for tough fights.

“I’m looking to get some big fights this year,” said Stempkowski.

“I’m 7-0 and can’t really grumble with how my career is progressing. I feel I’m improving all the time.

"I’m constantly taking my boxing to levels I didn’t think I would reach.

“I’m looking to test myself this year. I’m hungry for tougher opponents. I want fights that will show everyone how good I am.

“My fitness and toughness will come through in the fights over eight, 10 and 12 rounds.

“I’m not a quick starter so the four rounders don’t really suit me.

"At the end of four rounds, I’m just getting started and the fight’s over.

“Fitness, determination and my hard head are my biggest strengths. When the going gets tough, I work harder.”

Stempkowski loves to fight – but says his skills are improving.

“I have put in a lot of work in the gym over the last couple of years,” he said. “I’m not just going in there and having a fight anymore.

“My boxing is really improving.”

Stempkowski is part of a thriving boxing scene in Reading and is keen to follow in the footsteps of sparring partners Byfield and Mucha.

He said: “I would hope to get the Southern Area title this year. If the opportunity came along tomorrow, I would jump at it.”

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