WHEN it comes to the world of combat sports, Tez Nueto has a good idea of nearly all aspects.

As a teenage boxer, he won nine out of 10 contests while representing Barrow ABC. He has been a spectator too and earlier this year was pressed into service as a referee for Ryan Watson’s charity show in Ulverston when his scheduled bout fell through.

Nueto’s credentials as something of a sporting polymath are further enhanced by his rugby career, playing union for Furness and league for Barrow Island.

But this Saturday, he goes back to his roots when he faces Inspire Gym’s Kameron Lynch in a caged boxing match on Barrow MMA’s sold-out show at Manhattan’s.

“I like all aspects of sport, being a ref, a fan and a fighter – but I definitely enjoy being a fighter,” said Nueto. “When you’re reffing you have to think ‘I’m here to ref’ and when you’re a fan, you think you want to be in there.

“I love the rugby side of it and the craic with the lads, and I play at quite a high standard as well. But this winter, I thought I wanted to get back into fighting and I’ve found the bug for it.

“I’ve dedicated myself and it’s nice getting in a routine, staying focussed on one thing.”

The rugby league season being over the summer means Nueto can balance both of his sporting interests, although him and his friends are in no doubt which one he excels in particularly.

“I like to switch up with my rugby and boxing, but I would say I’m better at my boxing out of all sports,” said Nueto, who admits the dieting is tough.

“Fair play to the pros like Liam Conroy, Mike McGoldrick and Ross Cooksey, they’re determined and this is nothing compared with them. But I’m looking forward to it; I’m feeling fit, sharp and my weight is good and it’s all good.”