AT 39 STEPHEN Reynold’s doesn’t think he can be afforded the luxury of easing his way into the professional game.

The five time Senior Champion Reynolds, who when in his prime as amateur was higher ranked than former heavyweight champion of the world David Haye, returns to the ring after a ten year sabbatical against the gutsy and awkward Belfast based Mosses Matovu in the Emerald Road House this Saturday.

Matovu’s name might be as much as a tongue twister to some, as the Eastern European cannon fodder put in front of most debutants, but that is where the comparisons stop.

Sligo Rovers Footballers with Reynolds

The Belfast Ugandan certainly is full of heart and endeavour and is certainly a test for any fighter punching for pay for the first time.

The Sligo big man, whose brother Alan was also a decorated Irish amateur champion, cant afford to hang around and as a result has targeted a win over the respected Matovu this Saturday.

“To be honest it is a fight some people don’t think I should take. Usually no one bats an eyelid if you have a “blow-over” type opponent for your debut, but I’m 39 and haven’t the luxury of doing things the normal route,” Reynolds.

“I have to get stuck in straight away and take on the Matovu’s of this world from the offing. I know all about his background and have seen a few videos of him. He’s wild, unorthodox, crafty and tries to knock you out with every punch so I am going to have to be 100% on my game from the first bell to the last.”

“All the hard work is done now, I’ve had a great training camp, loads of help with sparring especially from my brother Alan and I think the venue it pretty much a sell out especially after Kiko Martinez was added to the bill so I just can’t wait to get into the ring now and show what I can do,” beamed the former amateur stand out.