BUOYANT boxer Ryan Collins is in confident mood as the clock ticks down to the biggest fight of his career.

And he will have massive backing from the local community who will be in his corner urging him on.

The Irvine Vineburgh ace has taken some time off work to fully focus on his Celtic Lightweight title showdown with Commonwealth Games gold medallist Charlie Flynn at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow on Saturday, April 15.

He is on the undercard of the headline battle between Scotland's own Ricky Burns and IBF and IBO champion Julius Indongo.

Collins (23) said on Monday: "I have spoken to the gaffer and am taking time off work so I can prepare for the fight and get plenty of rest, I will go back the Monday after the fight.

At the moment, I'm doing three sessions a day, including sparring, boxing, cardio work and running and things are going well. I'm confident that I can win the fight. Charlie hasn't fought much over 10 rounds but I have and that should help."

Collins says local support will be a major factor for him.

"There should be 500 fans shouting me on and that should help. I'm looking forward to the fight," he added.