Anthony Ogogo is ready for a very different kind of test when he takes on Dan Blackwell in his fourth professional bout at the London ExCeL Arena this evening.

At just 20 years old Blackwell has already carved out a career as the kind of battle-hardened boxer capable of providing a firm examination of Ogogo's progress since turning professional at the start of the year.

Blackwell's record of 26 defeats from 31 fights may not inspire much confidence of an upset tonight but Ogogo insists if he can stop the tough youngster inside the six rounds he will have sent out a statement of intent to the boxing world.

'It's the first time I have boxed someone like this,' said Ogogo, who has registered three victories since turning professional with Golden Boy Promotions. 'He is as tough as old boots and has only been stopped once in his career.

'He takes people the distance and I really want to be the first boxer to stop him. If I can do that then it would really send out a statement. He boxed Billy Bird at Epic a few weeks ago and took him the distance so he is a decent fighter.'

After finally overcoming several niggling injuries that had dogged him as an amateur, Ogogo has been pleased with how his preparation has gone, sparring with the likes of Carl Froch and Darren Barker.

However, Ogogo acknowledges pitting his wits against those sorts of world class fighters will be very different to the challenge he faces in the capital tonight.

'Coming up against Blackwell will be a completely different type of fight to sparring with someone like Froch,' said the Olympic bronze medallist. 'Boxers like Blackwell are so unorthodox in their style that it can be difficult to see where their next punch is coming from. You have to be very careful that you don't get caught.

'I'm used to fighting technical fighters so this will be very different. If I can get him out of it early then I will be really happy.'

Ogogo has already drawn up a plan for 2014 and hopes to headline a bill in East Anglia towards the end of the year if a suitable venue can be found.

'Fitness permitting I will be looking to fight three times in the US and five times in the UK next year – that's the plan,' he added. 'I would love to do a big show in Norwich next year but a lot will depend on finding a venue.

'I really want to establish a following in this part of the world. There haven't been too many fighters to come out from East Anglia and I would love to be the inspiration for a few more to follow my path.'

n Watch Ogogo v Blackwell on Sky Sports 2 from 8pm.