Sheppey boxer Benny May is back fighting for a world title this weekend.

May, from Minster, was crowned the IBA world welterweight champion following a 10th round stoppage of Vanny Purdy back in 2011.

He’s in the ring again on Saturday, hoping to add the WBU version to his name.

It’s a title that may not have a status it once did – Ricky Hatton among those to have previously clinched a belt – but May jumped at the chance to go for glory.

May, 41, said: “It’s a prestigious title that is back up and running and I’m lucky to have this opportunity.

“I’ve got a good business, a good life but when this chance came around on my doorstep, I just couldn’t turn it down.”

May will be backed by 600 fans in a sell-out show at Swallows Leisure Centre, Sittingbourne. The fight will be broadcast live on the capital’s independent TV station, London Live.

“I’m in the best condition of my life,” May said. “I’m confident but I’m not into trash talking my opponents. We’re both there to get a job done.

“I’ll have my army of supporters behind me and if all goes well, there could be the chance to fight abroad in the new year.”

His opponent on Saturday is 26-year-old ex-Royal Marine Jack Thomspon, who has a record of 29 wins and 20 losses from 49 fights.

May, who runs the Kent Gloves gym in Gillingham, has been trained by Terry Wright and Charlie Rumbol Jnr. On Saturday he’ll be walking out to the ring alongside Millwall supporter Terry Larner, the man dubbed a hero after fighting back against a terrorist at the London Bridge attack in June.

“He will be walking me out waving a Millwall flag, a real honour,” said May, whose cousin is English welterweight champion Johnny Garton.

May has fought twice since that 2011 title win but an Achilles injury has held him back.

He said: “It took a long time to heal. This is my biggest fight to date. He might be the younger fighter but I am capable, I’m hungry and in great shape.”