ST HELENS middleweight Martin Murray is now in the zone as he prepares for next month’s Monte Carlo showdown against Domenico Spada.

Halfway through his now traditional 10-week pre-fight training camp, Murray began sparring on Friday in anticipation of his October 25 clash with the durable Italian fighter.

He has plenty to remain focused for, ranked number one contender by the WBC and three by the IBF, Murray has been promised a world title bout in February.

But first he must despatch the 44-fight Italian battler, who boasts 19 knockouts in his 39 wins.

Spada, who has fought the likes of Marco Antonio Rubio, Darren Barker and Sebastian Zbik, has won seven of his last eight and is determined to re-enter the title picture by upsetting the man from St Helens.

Murray said: “He’s very experienced, you can’t buy that.

“He’ll fight anyone at any time.What you see is what you get with Spada. He hasn’t got a nice style, but he’s game and comes to win.

“He’s a tough fighter and he’ll love fighting in Monte Carlo, which will be like his back yard as he lives in Rome.

“He’s going to come in good condition – he’s got a point to prove. I’m expecting the best, but I’m a level above.”

Given that he is on the cusp of a championship shot, Murray knows he cannot produce anything less than an outstanding performance next month.

“This is why I’m not looking past Spada,” he says. “I’m approaching this like a world title. Whichever Spada turns up, though, I will beat all day long.”

To take the preparation for this crucial fight up another notch, Murray is contemplating high altitude training over in South Africa.