MATTHEW Barney is convinced his moment has come.

The Bishops Waltham boxer is sure in his heart that by tonight, he will be wearing a world title belt around his waist, and bring a first world championship to Southampton.

Barney is seeking revenge on London-based Syrian Hussain Osman who won the IBO Intercontinental super-middleweight at their frist meeting, and Barney says: "I know I come into this fight as the underdog.

"But that doesn't bother me, because I know I will win. I'm convinced. I have to got put this one to sleep before I can move up."

Barney has returned to his roots after plying his trade around the country, and manager Gwynne Evans reckons the atmosphere built up by the fervent Guildhall support will spur him on.

"This will be a homecoming for Matthew, and he wants to win this for the Southampton public."

Barney and Evans are of the school that believes to be the best, you have to beat the best, and that includes Osman.

Evans said: "Make no mistake, Osman is a top fighter. He's the type of fighter who will always be in world championships, and nine out ten people would avoid him.

"But Matt knows he can't avoid him, and he believes he will be a world champion.

"He doesn't want to sell the public short, and most importantly of all, he doesn't want to sell himself short."

Barney came away from yesterday's weigh-in with a five pound weight advantage, tipping the scales at 11st 13ozs, just three ounces under the12st limit.

"That will be perfect for Matt," says Evans. "Matt is a bigger frame and he will need the power against Osman, who is a strong boy.

"But, as I've said before, a good boxer will always beat a good fighter and I'm convinced Matt will give him a boxing lesson.

"He's in fantastic shape. He knows we have worked a strict, six-week programme and his last session in the gym was fantastic. He was razor sharp."

What promises to be a fantastic night of boxing will also include Southampton Colin Kenna who is looking to make it five wins from five fights against Zimbabwean Jamie Gilbert.

Kenna will reluctantly play second fiddle in a Southampton ring he considers his own province, but he and manager Jack Bishop have ambitions of their own that they will be tasting the big-time action themselves.