RYAN GARNER was pleasantly surprised when he saw enigmatic Spaniard Salvador Jimenez hop onto the scales at today’s weigh-in.
The two unbeaten contenders will square off for the vacant European super-featherweight title tomorrow night, headlining a Queensberry Promotions card at the BIC in Bournemouth, England.
For Garner, 16-0 (8 KOs), this is his first outing on the South Coast since 2017, with the Southampton slickster treating his home fans to a local night of action.
The 27-year-old injected plenty of excitement into his career last year, outpointing domestic rivals Archie Sharp and Liam Dillon with two comprehensive performances.
But while ‘The Piranha’ appears to be entering his prime years, the level of his next opponent remains something of a mystery.
Despite boasting an impressive record, Jimenez, 14-0-1 (6 KOs), is yet to test his skills against a proven operator at 130lbs.
Not only that, but with the 29-year-old now entering his first overseas assignment, it is difficult to gauge just how ready he is for what looks to be a sizable step-up in levels.
Jimenez, however, has remained quietly confident throughout the build-up and, based on a quick glance at his highlights, seems to possess an aggressive, come-forward style.
And yet, after assessing his opponent’s physique earlier today, Garner has seemingly become even more convinced that he will get the job done come fight night.
“He looks smaller than what I thought, if I’m honest,” Garner told Boxing News. “I remember seeing him at the media day [in January], and he was wearing baggy clothes so I couldn’t really see the size of him.
“But when I saw him [on the scales], he looked smaller and a bit more skinny. I felt like I made weight easier this time – it was my fourth time making championship weight. Each camp, it’s getting easier and easier [to make 130lbs].”
Regardless of the potential danger that Jimenez has to offer, Garner looks forward to what promises to be an unforgettable night in Bournemouth.
“I’ve sold over 1,500 tickets, so the atmosphere’s going to be electric,” he added. “It’s going to be a pinch myself moment, so hopefully I can impress everyone and come away with the title.”
