Wednesday 21 March 2018 13:03, UK
Joe Gallagher says it is "now or never" for his light-heavyweight charge Callum Johnson as he prepares to take on Frank Buglioni at The O2.
Johnson, 32, was last in action when he produced a career-best Commonwealth title win over Willbeforce Shihepo back in September 2016.
It has been a frustrating period of inactivity since, blemished with postponements, but now the unbeaten Johnson (16-0-KO11) finally has his chance to claim the coveted British belt and trainer Gallagher says he is more than ready.
"Callum's a fantastic boxer and this is his opportunity on the big stage," Gallagher exclusively told Sky Sports.
"Training's gone well, he's been a sleeping giant in the gym and we're really looking forward to it.
All the talk at the moment is about Buglioni, Anthony Yarde and Hosea Burton, everyone's forgotten about Callum Johnson. This is his breakout fight.
"This is his breakout fight, if he doesn't do it now then he never will. He certainly has the tools to do it, he's a fantastic boxer with great shot selection and is a murderous puncher.
"Two weeks ago, everyone in the gym stood still to watch him spar and (Anthony) Crolla, Liam (Smith) and Callum (Smith) turned to me and said 'wow, he could be a world champion one day', he's been on fire."
Gallagher expects an all-action affair come fight night and is well aware of the threat of the British champion.
"Buglioni's a good fighter and he had that win against Burton followed by two good defences - he's a fighter on confidence," he said.
"This is a great match-up, a real juicy, fan-friendly, fight. "
"All the talk at the moment is about Buglioni, Anthony Yarde and Hosea Burton, everyone's forgotten about Callum Johnson."
Watch Frank Buglioni against Callum Johnson, on the Whyte vs Browne undercard, on Saturday, March 24 at The O2, live from 7pm on Sky Sports Action.
