FIGHT rivals Paul Halpin and Justin Murphy are ready for an explosive battle of Brighton and Hove on Friday night.

Both men are predicting a quick victory in their showdown for the southern area featherweight title at the York Hall, Bethnal Green.

Brighton roadsweeper Murphy has pledged to repeat Halpin's defeat by his twin brother and trainer Gary as an amateur.

The 24-year-old, now self managed after splitting from Paul Newman, declared: "Paul Halpin has been blown up out of all proportion.

"I've been in with better calibre opponents and beaten some good boys. He hasn't fought anyone.

"I'm looking for it to be over in three or four rounds. If not I will wait for him to blow out."

Unbeaten Hove prospect Halpin blasted back: "Justin lives on another planet. He is an over-the-hill journeyman who has been used and abused throughout his career.

"You have only got to look at him. He fights with his face. He says he has been in with calibre but he has been beaten by them all and I don't think he has ever had a victory inside the distance.

"David Burke stopped him in three rounds in his last fight and I am looking to do roughly the same."

Hot favourite Halpin is making his comeback after four months out with a career-threatening blood disorder.

ABritish title shot is at stake for him and he has been in training for eight weeks and got through almost 100 rounds of sparring. He also has his own dietician and sports massage specialist.

"I'm taking 35 to 40 vitamin supplements a day now and I only eat organic foods," he said. "The difference is unbelievable. I feel like I could knock down walls at the moment."

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