Martin Rogan is in upbeat mood ahead of Friday night's Commonwealth heavyweight title defence against Norwich's Sam Sexton at the Odyssey Arena in Belfast.

It is a first defence for the Belfast fighter after he stopped Matt Skelton in Birmingham in March.

"Sexton has fast hands and moves a lot and it's my job to stop that happening," said the 38-year-old.

"But I'm not worried about what he does - I'm working hard on my plan and that is to stop him."

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Both Rogan and Sexton, who has won 11 of his 12 fights, are past winners of the Prizefighter tournament.

Sexton is 13 years younger than the former taxi driver but Rogan does not believe age will be a factor.

"Age is merely a number, I have beaten many younger opponents and it does not worry me at all," he added.

"It is great that everyone here is getting the chance to watch the fight, people from all counties and from both sides of the community.

"It is a also a family night and gives people the opportunity to watch the sport.

"There is also a fantastic undercard so it should be a great night of boxing.

"I've beaten an Olympic gold medal winner in Audley Harrison and Matt Skelton had not been stopped before our fight so I've shown what I can do."

Beijing Olympians James DeGale, Frankie Gavin and Billy Joe Saunders are all set to box on the bill.