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Charlie Edwards left in disbelief after being handed main event slot at the Copper Box for first title defenceBy Evening Standard

Charlie Edwards admits he did not know whether to take promoter Eddie Hearn seriously when told he would be the headline act at the Copper Boxon Saturday.

“I was shocked,” said Edwards, who will be making the first defence of his WBC flyweight title against Angel Moreno.

“I’ve been wanting this attention for a long time — I’ve dedicated 15 years to it. Now I’m the main event, that’s what I strive for.”

The 26-year-old’s aim is to be a multi-weight world champion, after unifying his flyweight division. “I want to be a British great,” he said.

Edwards won his world title last December, producing a masterful performance against Cristofer Rosales on an emotional night to win his title in his 15th fight as a professional.

Josh Buatsi also features on the card at the Copper Box Arena as he takes on Liam Conoy for the British light-heavyweight title.

Anthony Joshua’s protégé Lawrence Okolie is also in action as he looks to secure the 12th victory of his burgeoning career.