IT would be a bold move to fight abroad at any stage of a boxer’s career, but for undefeated County Durham fighter Jeff Saunders, the decision to compete in South Africa is regarded as an important stage of his development, writes Peter Mann.

Saunders will head into the ring in Johannesburg on Friday night, looking to extend his unbeaten four-fight record when he takes on South African Willis Baloyi.

Baloyi has won six of his 11 contests to date, but significantly has never been stopped, and his power and durability should give Saunders plenty to think about as he continues his journey through the professional ranks.

Accompanied by father, Jeff Snr, and coach, Mark McGuinness - brother Bradley could also be heading out to South Africa - it will be a strange environment for the Sedgefield fighter.

Given that he combined his amateur career with a stint in the military, however, perhaps his armed forces training will kick in as he acclimatises.

“I could have done with a bit more time to get acclimatised, but my military training will be a deciding factor and there’ll be a good contrast between the mental and physical attributes needed,” said Saunders, who is a former paratrooper.

“My team have given me a few heat sessions in the gym, so I’ve tried a good few rounds where I’ve been heavily clothed, but this game is just getting harder every time.

“I will have to dig deep, and know that this could be the fight that goes the distance.”

Saunders, who is due to take on Baloyi over four rounds, has won all four of his professional fights to date via a first-round stoppage.

He will start as favourite on Friday despite ceding home advantage, but is confident fighting overseas will not be a problem.

“I just need to go in there and box, stick to and play the game, and I know I’ll be fine,” he said. “It’s good when people at home can get to see my fight, but for me, nine times out of ten, it’s better when I’m on an away show as I can use the opponent to my advantage and, If I can get rid of him early, I will.”

With Bradley struggling with a recurring hand problem, Jeff has stepped into the family limelight, and his father, Jeff Snr, is looking forward to seeing his younger son fighting at a higher level.

“His (Jeff's) opponent has had 11 bouts and will be a fantastic challenge for him,” he said. “Baloyi has had a good run in the paid ranks and has never been stopped.

“It's good for Jeff to try new, different things, so we'll have this one and then he's free for the rest of the year, unless anything comes up between now and January.”