UNBEATEN Fred Evans is hoping 2019 will be the year that he takes a big step forward in boxing’s professional ranks – but before that he’s got his toughest test yet in Newport tonight.

The 2012 Olympic silver medallist, part of the highly successful St Joseph’s stable, has made a solid start to life in the paid code with five straight wins, all on points.

He has the chance to make it six in a row at the Newport Centre when Englishman Ryan Toms (15-15-3) is his opponent on the eagerly-anticipated Sanigar Events bill.

None of Evans’ victories to date have come inside the distance, but he has plans to make it an early finish against Toms and then look towards a title fight after Christmas.

“This will definitely be my toughest fight so far,” said the 27-year-old from St Mellons.

“He’s got a 50-50 record but quite a few stoppages and is an ex-Southern Area champion, so it’s a bit of a test.

“They’ve all been comfortable points wins so far so I might try and go for the stoppage.

“I’ve been getting the rounds in and enjoying the experience so far, but I’m going to try and step it up a gear for this one.

“Hopefully all of us from St Joes will win on the night and there’ll be a few more titles for the gym.”

He continued: “We’re in talks trying to sort out a title shot for me for after Christmas, hopefully it will be early next year.

“Hopefully it will be for the British title but whatever is there for the taking really.

“Ted Cheeseman and Asinia Byfield are fighting for the British tonight, so we’ll see how that goes.

“Hopefully I’ll take on the winner.”

Middlesex’s Toms, 36, is a two-time former Southern Area super-welterweight champion.