DAN Blackwell will go looking to follow in his older brother Nick’s footsteps when he challenges for his first middleweight title next month.

The 19-year-old Contender Gym fighter has stepped in as a late challenger for the vacant International Masters belt and will be taking on 26-year-old Brighton fighter Nicky Jenman (4-4) at the K2 Leisure Centre in Crawley on February 16.

The younger of the Blackwell brothers has amassed a wealth of experience since joining the pro ranks in December 2011, having never been stopped in 19 bouts, and trainer Mark Kent thinks that the time may be right for his man to step up to the next level.

“Dan was asked if he wanted to step in with just three weeks’ time to train but he said yes – he’s always ready to take anything,” said Kent.

“Dan’s a very tough kid but the thing with him is that he can definitely hit too so you never know, it could be the right time for him.”

Meanwhile, the Contender Gym will hand professional debuts to two fighters at their bill at the Trowbridge Civic Hall on March 2.

Jono Price, 19, who lives in Staverton and has won 48 of his 52 amateur fights, will make his first appearance at super-flyweight.

Melksham heavyweight Luke Martin, 28, will also make his pro debut after winning all nine of his unlicensed fights by knockout.

Tickets for the March 2 show are available from the Contender Gym (01225 765712) from tomorrow.