Josh Padley: Doncaster boxer was able to quit day job after Shakur Stevenson loss

Padley wasn’t signed to a major promotion when he accepted the Stevenson fight, but his commitment to the sport meant he was ready when the call came.

“You have to be ready and stay around that weight category if opportunities like this come along,” he said.

“If my weight had swelled up and I wasn’t just ticking in the gym, then I wouldn’t have been able to stand the fight and I wouldn’t be in this position today.”

Padley, who has competed at lightweight for most of his career, is set to embark on a new journey at super featherweight when he faces Bellotti in Sheffield, 20 miles from his home in Doncaster.

“I can now be a full-time athlete, so I can sacrifice more in terms of weight and discipline in my meals,” Padley added.

“That gave me the opportunity to step back and have a good first fight against someone as tried and tested as Reece.

Bellotti, 34, has a record of 20 wins and six losses, but has been in the ring with top contenders Ryan Garner, Raymond Ford and Jordan Gill.

Padley knows the road to world title contention is long, but he plans to continue supporting himself.

“Every beginner boxer should have high goals because this is the pinnacle of the sport,” he said.

“I would love to go back to the big season cards in Riyadh, I’ve had an experience and that’s where I want to be.

“Keep moving forward and aim as high as possible.”