Someones 0 has to go when Al Harbi battles Byrne

Undefeated Second City stylist Nasser Al Harbi has been handed a tough-looking test on his debut for new promoter Frank Warren.

The skillful, fast-handed and measured light-middleweight, who has a blemish-free 11-fight professional tab (one inside), meets Dublin-based destroyer Dean Byrne, 14-0 (6), at London's ExCel Arena on July 9 with the winner being pushed towards a crack at a domestic strap.

Al Harbi won a developmental WBC belt in December, handing Dennapa Bigshotcamp a seven-round beating in the exotic climbs of Dubai, and has plenty of confidence. That was the Birmingham fighter's first stoppage but his previous paid outings had displayed his crafty footwork, handspeed and ability to control matters at range and inside.

But in Byrne, 26, he meets a globe-trotting banger who spent a time training with sought-after Manny Pacquiao handler Freddie Roach in America. The Irishman started his career in Australia, picking up their national 10st title, but has also boxed in the US and has had his last two in his Emerald Isle home.

To many outside of the hardcore boxing circle,  however, both are unknown warriors with decent-looking records. But having seen Nasser box in the flesh on several occasions, he is the real deal. 

Trained by father Naji after starting with former WBC world champion Richie Woodhall, the 21-year-old has answered every question asked of him thus far, outpointing former Midland Area champions Kevin McCauley and Matt Scriven with plenty to spare. He also ended the unbeaten run of Llloyd Creighton and dominated willing Eastern European import Arek Malek.

As the old boxing adage goes, one of these fighters '0' has to go. But many in the Midlands will be confident that Al Harbi's will be the one that stays.