FOUR wins, four knock-outs - an Orford man's boxing career since rekindling his love for the sport is nothing short of exceptional.

But Lee Irving's reasoning to enter the ring is not for personal joy, it is to entertain a special friend, one who has been present at all of his fights.

In November last year, Lee's best friend, Jonathan Deakin, aged 44, was diagnosed with a brain tumour which has been confirmed as terminal.

Since hearing the news, 34-year-old Lee, who had several amateur fights 12 years ago, was determined to get back into the gym and ready to fight to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research.

"Jonathan and his twin brother both (Martin) love boxing and that is the reason why I have chose to box again," said Lee.

"Raising money for a great cause is obviously great and having them at the fights is really good and helps me a lot, though my wife Rachel struggles to watch.

"I have felt good since I started training again - it just started off as me going to the gym but then I really thought about fighting after a short while training."

He will fight next month in Malta, however, it is yet to be confirmed whether Jonathan, who has undertaken chemotherapy and radiotherapy, will be in attendance, while Lee is currently in training mode.

"He has been to all of the fights but with it being in Malta, he is not too sure whether he will be able to travel but he does want too," he said.

"Training was a bit tough at first and awkward but I am building around it and usually train at 6am now.

"I sometimes even train twice a day depending on if I have the time to do so."

Aside from raising money for the fantastic cause, Lee is starting to enjoy his progress on the boxing scene after being crowned northern masters heavyweight champion.

"I have started to set myself little goals now but didn't really think about belts so much when I first started," added Lee.

"My next aim is to win the British title - who knows, maybe it could happen, maybe not."

Money for the charity is raised from ticket sales.