ASHLEY Brace is to challenge Spain’s Melania Sorroche for the vacant European bantamweight title at the Newport Centre on Saturday, December 9.

Ebbw Vale’s Brace, 26, the WBC international champion, is undefeated in seven fights since turning professional in 2015.

Sorroche, who has won 13, lost two and drawn one of her 16 bouts, is set to provide the toughest test of Brace’s career so far.

Last year, Sorroche, 27, lost a narrow split decision when challenging Venezuela’s Mayerlin Rivas for the WBA world title.

Capturing the European crown would put either boxer in prime position to face WBC world champion Yazmin Rivas in 2018.

"It is a dream come true for me to fight for such a prestigious title at home in Wales," said Brace.

“These are the big fights I crave and I can’t wait to make Welsh boxing history by being the first female fighter to win the European title.

Brace's manager Chris Sanigar believes his boxer has what it takes to be victorious.

He added: "Ashley has been training hard at St. Joseph's in Newport with Tony Borg.

"She is very lucky to have very high level sparring and I think that will make the difference on the night.

"We have seen that Ashley has an excellent work rate and hopefully she can break down her opponent and get the win.

"It will be great for Welsh boxing and female boxing to have a European champion from South Wales."

Promoter Jamie Sanigar said: "It is great to be bringing a European title to Newport and giving Ashley Brace home advantage.

"This is Ashley's big chance to win a major title and put herself in prime position to challenge for world honours.

"We will be announcing more title fights to the bill over the next week and this is set to be a massive night for Welsh boxing."

Tickets are available from the box office on 0117 949 6699 and priced at £60 VIP ringside, £50 ringside, £40 outer ringside, £30 unreserved seating, under-16's £10 (accompanied by an adult).