Expectant boxer Mark Lloyd is refusing to contemplate defeat in his Italian job tonight.

Shifnal puncher Lloyd has the chance to bring the European Union welterweight title belt back to Shropshire when he takes on Luciano Abis in the Italian’s backyard of Cagliari.

A fourth defeat of his career would leave Lloyd starring out the prospect of retirement.

But the 35-year-old believes he can become the first man to stop Abis in his 32 bouts.

“I’m really confident and I’m not even thinking about the possibility of losing,” said Lloyd, a plumber by trade.

“Abis has got a good record and I think I’m going to have to stop him to win because it’s unlikely I will get a points decision over there.

“It’s the first time I have been involved in a 12 round contest but I’m certainly fit enough for it and I think it will benefit me.

“I get stronger the longer the fights go on so I think I will stop him in the later rounds.

“I didn’t have a great night last night and didn’t feel too good but I’m fine now and I’m ready to go.”

Lloyd believes victory will bring him the possibility of even greater prizes.

“My ranking will fly up if I win this and I would be in contention for a British title shot, which is the one I want,” he added.

Both Lloyd and Abis weighed in at the 10st 6lbs, a fraction below the 10st 7lbs welterweight limit in last night’s weigh in.

By JAMES GARRISON