Kevin Mitchell has been talking up his chances of success when he fights for the WBO interim lightweight title at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday 15 May.
The Dagenham-based boxer - now known as the Hammer - has been warming up this week for the bout against Michael Katsidis with an impromptu sparring session against Academy graduate Joe Cole. The England midfielder was a visitor to Mitchell's gym in east London to lend his support to his long-term friend.
Tickets have been going well for the fight night at Upton Park with an impressive undercard before the main event gets under way helping to entice supporters. Mitchell said excitement is mounting. "We're going to have an amazing atmosphere - with plenty of bubbles floating around the arena.
"It's a big show, it's a massive event for boxing and it's a big show for West Ham. It's the first time they've ever held boxing in the stadium - the first of many I hope - and it's unbelievable that I'm associated with it."
BUY TICKETS FOR 'HAMMER TIME' HERE
Seats are going fast for 'Hammer Time' headlined by the Mitchell-Katsidis fight with the packed undercard including the British and Commonwealth heavyweight championship between Danny Williams and Sam Sexton.
Olympic Gold medallist James DeGale is also on the bill as he challenges for the first title in his career - the WBA international super-middleweight championship along with unbeaten heavyweight star Derek Chisora; and Britain's hottest young prospects Frankie Gavin and Billy Joe Saunders.
Tickets for 'Hammer Time', priced at £30, £40, £50, £80, £150, £200 & £250, are available now. Call the box office now on 0871 222 2700.