South Yorkshire's Terri Harper launches latest world title quest
Victory in her next bout would throw Terri Harper back into the mix for a World title shot
Terri Harper believes victory over Miranda Reyes can propel her towards another slice of boxing history as she begins her quest to become a world champion in a fourth weight division.
The 29-year-old super lightweight from Denaby Main, Doncaster, returns to the ring for the first time since her unanimous decision defeat to Caroline Dubois in London in April when she faces American Reyes in a 10-round contest at Birmingham Arena on Saturday, August 29.
A convincing win on the all-female Most Valuable Promotions card would firmly place Harper back in the mix for another shot at world honours as she embarks on the latest chapter of an already remarkable career.
Harper, who has previously held world titles across three weight classes, says the opportunity to chase championship success at yet another weight is providing all the motivation she needs.
"It's big and again, it's just creating that little bit more history for myself," Harper said.
"I feel like I'm at that point in my career now where I've experienced everything.
"To go out and challenge to be a world champion in four weight divisions… not many people can say they've done that."
The August contest forms part of an MVP promotion whose main card is made up entirely of Britain versus United States match-ups, continuing the company's commitment to "elevating women's boxing on the global stage."
Despite coming into the fight after the disappointment of losing to Dubois, Harper insists she is approaching the bout with renewed freedom and without the burden of expectation.
"I feel like I haven't got much left to prove," she said. "I've gone out, and I've done well for myself over the years.
"I'm always pushing myself as an athlete and as a person, and I always enjoy the challenge.
"For now, I just want to be able to enjoy the sport that I fell in love with. There's no pressure for me now, and I can go out there and just enjoy boxing for what it is."
Harper - who admits to being a "fan girl" of boxer Mikaela Mayer who is also on the bill - is expecting a stern examination from Reyes but believes her experience and technical ability will ultimately prove decisive.
"I feel like she's going to make me earn my money on the night," she said.
"It's just about sticking to what I know I can do. I'm a skilled fighter. I've got great experience over the years. It's just about going out there and enjoying the night."
Reyes, meanwhile, is travelling to Birmingham full of confidence and believes her aggressive style can trouble the South Yorkshire fighter.
"I'm a pressure fighter, and I believe she has never stepped in the ring with someone like me," Reyes said. "I'm just excited and ready to put on a great fight."
The American says changes made in training have left her well prepared for the biggest opportunity of her career.
"I have a strong team behind me. I believe I have made some changes in my style, and I'm just ready to put on a great fight."
As for her prediction, she added: "I'm definitely taking it home."
The bout also carries deep personal significance for Reyes, who revealed she will dedicate the fight to a sparring partner who recently died.
"I'm proud to represent my country, and this fight means more than, you know, just a fight," she said.
"I want to take this time to actually dedicate this fight to one of my sparring partners that unfortunately passed away. I'll carry her spirit with me throughout this whole fight.
"So this fight is really personal to me, and I'm ready to put on a great fight."