NEWPORT boxer Craig Woodruff fights in his hometown for the first time in more than five years tonight when he takes on Englishman Jordan Ellison at The Neon.

Lightweight Woodruff, 26, enjoyed a successful comeback to the ring last November having not fought since July 2014.

He faces a tough test in Ellison (11-19) but should have plenty of support behind him at the British Warriors Boxing Promotions event.

“I’m fighting in a division packed with Welsh talent,” said Woodruff (6-4).

“There are some top-quality fighters out there, but I’ve matured since I first started as a pro boxer and I intend to make the city proud and show them that sooner or later the cream always rises to the top. That’s where I belong.

“Longer rounds suit me and I’ll show everybody that when I get back to six-round fights, starting on February 2.”

Manager and trainer Richie Garner added: “I’m so pleased to be a part of Craig’s career.

“He is a top-level fighter who has demonstrated he can compete with the very best even though he should probably have never been in the ring with that calibre of opponent until much later in his career.

“He is only 26 and has so much to offer. I won’t be rushing his progress.

“Jordan Ellison is a real test though, the first of many that we hope will bring more titles back to Newport.”

It was in Newport in February 2013 that Woodruff became Welsh lightweight champion.