Most people would be intimated to trade blows with the son of a Hall of Fame boxing legend.
But, not Novocastrian Darkon Dryden.
The Mayfield pugilist will step into the ring with rising super welterweight champion Nikita Tszyu, over six rounds, at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre on Saturday 8 October.
And, he’s looking forward to the challenge.
“It’s a huge opportunity with all eyes on me,” the 29-year-old said.
“However, I’ve been seeing this for a while, just not the face.
“Now, I’m fighting a big name, being related to Kostya (father) and Tim (brother), and a known profile, which makes it perfect.”
The man known as “Dynamite” boasts a 4-0 winning record, thanks to four knockouts.
But, Dryden could have been lost to the sport.
“I was in the Newcastle Knights’ SG Ball system – and going back and forth,” the former Waratah High School student said.
“Then I decided to take boxing more seriously.
“I’d been into it since I was a little kid anyway, so I didn’t need much convincing.
“I switched to the pros a few years ago.
“However, it hasn’t been easy.
“I’ve got a wife and two kids.
“It’s tough sometimes trying to juggle everything.
“But, I’m here now – and I’m ready to turn it on.”
Dryden, who is coached by his dad Joe, insisted he’ll grab the chance before him with “both hands”.
“I’ve got a few things going against me,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“However, I don’t think it will matter come 8 October.
“I truly believe I can stop him, 100%.
“I’ve watched his previous bouts and noticed a couple of holes in his technique.
“Sometimes, he’s looked good; other times, not so good.
“I’m sure he thinks the same as me.
“He’ll have his own game plan, as will I.
“I’m a boxer, a puncher – and I don’t believe he’s fought against someone like me before.
“He’ll know I’m in the ring with him, that’s for sure.
“This fight is all I’m focussed on moving forward.
“The next five weeks can’t come quick enough.”
Dryden and Tszyu will be among the headline acts, on a historic occasion at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, with a packed house of more than 5,000 expected for a first of its kind event, organised by No Limit Boxing.
Twenty bouts – including an IBO title clash between Dennis Hogan (30-4-1) and Sam Eggington (32-7) – are scheduled to take place at the precinct across 10 hours, with food trucks, beer gardens, big screen TVs and music adding to the extravaganza’s atmosphere.
“It’ll be a massive evening,” the local said.
“And, fighting in Newcastle is good – I’m treating it [Entertainment Centre] like it’s my kingdom.
“I am not overawed by any of this.
“Everyone who fights here gets daunted by the bright lights and TV cameras.
“It doesn’t really bother me.
“You can offer me money to fight in the Coles car park – and I’ll take it.
“But, Australian boxing will be the winner on the night,” he added with a laugh.
