Josh Taylor thanked hundreds of his fans for taking time out to pack Prestonpans Community Centre for the weigh-in for his big fight at Ingliston.
It was standing room only in the hall as the East Lothian-based boxer stood in the wings waiting to stand on the scales.
But the roof came off following a thunderous roar as the 26-year-old southpaw boxer’s name was announced.
And he was cheered to the rafters as he stepped forward for the official weigh-in for his title bout with former world title holder Miguel Vazquez at The Royal Highland Centre at Ingliston on Saturday.
Taylor then took the microphone to thank fans and several minutes later, after going through the pre-fight medical, the former amateur staff was still in awe of the reception he received.
The man from Prestonpans said: “I feel really confident but that turn-out was really awesome. I could not believe how many people were here for the weigh-in.
“I honestly didn’t think there would be that many people here (for the weigh-in) as people are at work and other stuff is going on.
“But I was blown away. It was wall to wall and absolutely amazing and I can’t thank the people of Prestonpans enough for turning out.”
And he added: “The roar when I walked into the room was brilliant and I’m blown away with how many people turned up.
“I plan to come away with a win but I don’t feel under any pressure and I thrive under the lights and on the big occasion – I love it.
“I am enjoying the moment and love what I do.”
Later, Taylor slipped off tucking into a protein shake to re-fuel and re-hydrate and intended to chill out before the contest before an expected full house at Ingliston. Doors open at 5pm.
Experienced news, business, arts, sport and travel journalist. Food critic and managing editor of a well-established food and travel website. Also a magazine editor of publications with circulations of up to 200,000 and managing director of a long-established PR/marketing company with a string of blue-chip clients in its CV. Former communications lecturer at a Scottish university and social media specialist for a string of successful and busy SMEs.
