JEFF SAUNDERS is ready to step out of his brother Bradley’s shadow when he makes his professional debut in Saturday’s Rising Stars promotion at Gateshead Leisure Centre, writes Peter Mann.

The Sedgefield light welterweight is happy to be leaving the amateur ranks behind, having claimed the National ABA title in 2013, and is determined to make his mark in the paid ranks.

“I’m sad I have to say goodbye to the amateur scene but this is a new lease of life for me and everything is being done right and by the book,” said Saunders.

“I’ve seen what the likes of Jack Catterall and Tom Stalker are doing in the sport and I’ve beaten them before and can again, so when is that right time to turn professional, it’s now.”

As was the case when he won the ABA title at Rainton Meadows in 2013, both Saunders brothers will be in attendance on Jeff’s big night.

Bradley has flown in from his Marbella training base to lend some family support, with his own co-headline night at Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena now just two months away.

“Family will always come first for us,” said elder brother Bradley, who challenges Dave Ryan for the light welterweight Commonwealth strap on April 4.

“I’ll be more nervous for my brother than for myself on fight night. He will make a statement though, I know he will. It’s his time to get the recognition he deserves.

“I assure you all, this lad can fight, and he’s good if not better than the rest of the region’s fighters.”

Both brothers are looking for a minimum of five fights apiece this year, and Jeff claims to have slotted into the professional set-up with ease.

“I don’t think my training could have gone any better,” he said. “I’ve done plenty with my father (Jeff Saunders Snr), been with Brad, and Ian Glass is an amazing man and has worked wonders on my nutrition and intake.

“With Brad, he’s been there and done it all so I respect him for that, and I won’t take anything away from him regarding what he’s achieved. But I’m now looking at winning my own titles and coming out of that shadow.”

* Rising Stars takes place at Gateshead Leisure Centre on February 7. Doors open at 5pm, and the first bout is scheduled for 7pm.