IT was a successful, but tough comeback for Anthony Nelson last month as he got through six rounds with Simas Volosinas ahead of this weekend’s crunch showdown with Charlie Edwards in Newcastle.

Volosinas came to do a job and he stifled “Babyface” throughout, with Nelson getting much needed rounds under his belt, blowing off the cobwebs and picking up a win.

After all, it had been two years since he last entered the ring, when he opposed Jamie Conlan in the 2016 Fight of the Year at the Copper Box Arena.

Coach Mal Gates said of his charge, “At the end of the day we’re at where we’re at and we wanted six good rounds in the bank with 10 tough rounds coming up [against Charlie Edwards].

“The kid [Volosinas] was 9st 9lbs and I know Anthony was but that’s not his weight category, he’s boxed well above his weight category, boxing lads that’s heavier than you and the punching takes a lot off you.”

Prior to his comeback it was announced that the South Shields fighter would be opposing Charlie Edwards for the WBA Continental super-flyweight strap on the Josh Kelly/Lewis Ritson undercard.

Nelson said of his upcoming challenge, “These are fights I want and deserve to be in.

“Let’s get it on and see what happens.

“This is a massive opportunity for me and they only come around so often, that’s why we don’t live in an ideal world.

“Edwards is a good fight and he thinks he can give me a lesson but he’s not going to be doing that.

“I’m looking at keeping a winning streak going at the Arena but I’ll take nothing away from my opponent, he’s a good boxer, technically as well.

“I’m confident in my own abilities though and hopefully we can win another title.”

Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn added, “I’m delighted to welcome back Anthony Nelson.

“We all remember his last fight here [against Jamie Wilson in April 2015] and his fight of the year with Conlan.”

Nelson, who trains alongside stablemates Tom Whitfield, Lee Mould, Paul Gidney and Sam Menzies under Gates’ watchful eye has long since counted on the guidance of Lee Tiffin for strength and conditioning at the Blacksheep Fitness Academy.

Support from his fanbase helped ensure his comeback would happen. “That (comeback) kind of happened by chance really,” Nelson said. “It was all down to pure luck but I’m glad it has and it’s my time now, these things really do happen for a reason.”

Nella, who faces Edwards this Saturday at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle for the WBA Continental super-flyweight strap also offered his sincere thanks to sponsors Lean Eatin,’ DH Metals, CBD Life UK, Eighty6 Clothing, Westoe Taxis, GasWise Plumbing & Heating, Muscle Relief Massage Therapy, Quality Retail Services, and Jimmy Law.