BOLTON boxer Jonny Nelson is set to make his professional debut in a clash with Rotherham's Paul Royston.

The 33-year-old middleweight, who fights out of Alex Penarski's gym in Horwich, takes his first step in the paid ranks at Altrincham Leisure Centre on Sunday.

Nelson, who has been forced to fight under moniker Jonny Enigma by the British Board of Control because he shares the same name as the former WBO cruiserweight king, boasts an impressed amateur record of 24 wins out of 28 fights.

And the Deane hardman, who fights on the undercard of ex-WBU super featherweight Michael Gomez, making his return to the ring after retiring in dramatic fashion in January 2006, can't wait.

"I'm just really looking forward to it," said the former soldier. "I just can't wait to experience the professional game.

"I used to stop a lot of fighters in the amateurs and it will be interesting to see if I can do the same as a pro."

Bolton-based duo Chris Johnson and Carl Dilks, who both train at Halliwell's Elite gym, will also be in action on the same bill.

Welterweight Johnson takes on Pavel Jaz looking for a third straight victory after losing on his pro debut, while Carl Dilks faces Carl Wild in a light-heavyweight clash.

One boxer who will not be on show, though, is Robin White after the unbeaten light-heavyweight has been forced to pull out of his fight through injury.

The Farnworth Destroyer was looking for a third win on the trot after a successful start to his professional career, but now faces a lengthy spell out of the ring after suffering an adominal muscle strain.

All ringside tickets have been sold, but general tickets, priced £25, will be available on the door.