Ben Smith says he is in the best shape of his career ahead of his fourth professional fight on Saturday, October 8.

The High Wycombe boxer will look to extend his unbeaten record when he takes on Plymouth’s Chris Adaway at the Harrow Leisure Centre.

A summer break has allowed the 20-year-old to recuperate from his debut campaign, and Smith now says he is stronger than at any point in his pro career.

Smith said: “I have been telling everyone who asks me about sparring that I am hitting a lot harder now. I am a bit heavier than I was as well.

“I am still fighting at the same weight but I am coming down from a lot heavier so will be hitting a lot harder in there.”

The super-lightweight has claimed all of his victories by virtue of points decisions so far and will once again head into next month’s fight as the favourite.

Adaway’s record of five wins from his 26 fights is far from stellar, but Smith nonetheless believes he will present challenges he has not yet faced.

“He has a losing record, but gives it a bit more of a go than the other people I have boxed against so far,” Smith explained.

“He probably isn’t going to beat me, but it will be a lot tougher fight than the three I have had before. He is an awkward fighter to face.

“I am purely focused on getting the job done this time around. Knowing that I have a tougher test has motivated me more.”

Smith’s confidence that he will come away from the bout with another win to his name is boosted further by the fact he has enjoyed an excellent training camp.

He feels an increased maturity has allowed his trainer, Mark Tibbs, to focus on new skills ahead of a 12 months which Smith says could shape the remainder of his career.

“It is a cliché to say it but this has been the best training camp I have ever had. I have been able to work on new skills which I haven’t done before,” Smith said.

“It is a huge year and sets me up for what level I will be boxing at really. If I start struggling in fights now they are not going to chuck me in with a southern area champion for a long while.

“This year will determine how fast my career is going to take off. If I start performing now I could be fighting for titles by the end of 2017, which is what I want to be doing.”