MATT McCarthy admits he is in the “shape of his life” ahead of his career-defining fight with Bulgarian Stanislav Nenkov next month.

The 21-year-old from Tilbury is preparing to star in a six-title fight card at Bethnal Green’s York Hall next month, having linked up with Goodwin Promotions last year.

But he admits, after a controversial defeat last summer to Chris Truman, this fight is his last chance to set up a shot at the Southern Area title.

Super welterweight Nenkov, who has won 12 and lost 10 of his fights to date, weighs in a few pounds heavier than 10st 12lb McCarthy but he is still confident of winning the bout.

“This is a huge moment for me,” said McCarthy, who has won 10 out of his 11 fights. “And I know how important this fight is if I want to push on. Nenkov knows how to fight in different ways but I just want him to come out and box at his best so I can show what I can do.

“He has a winning record and the only fights he has lost are those against boxers with unbeaten records. He weighs a few pounds more than me But this is it for me. I’ve got to win this fight.”

McCarthy says he feels stronger after linking up with coach Terry Coulter last year, and says he couldn’t be in better shape.

He has been sparring with French fighter Dylan Charatt (who has won 64 of his 66 amateur fights) and Bradley Skeete (who is bidding to become WBO European welterweight champion later this month) in the run-up to the fight on March 14.

“I have been working with Alex Breading (conditioning coach) and I feel the best I ever have,” said McCarthy. “I am physically and mentally strong and want to get into the ring and prove that.

“Terry’s worked wonders with me and I am so grateful. I’ve been training with some really good boxers and feel good about my progress.”

The welterweight boxer lost in controversial circumstances to Truman last July, when the fight was stopped by the referee despite McCarthy’s dominance.

And although he has beaten Liam Griffiths since, McCarthy admits he is still smarting from that loss.

“I have offered him a re-match and even double money to fight me again so we can put the record straight,” he said. “But, although it is frustrating I am now putting it behind me and am looking forward.”

l Limited tickets for the fight at York Hall on Saturday, March 14 are still available, costing £35.