Two boxers from Controversy Gym are set for overseas tests when they compete at the Dover Boxing Club Annual Slugfest in New Jersey on Saturday.

Adrian Roach and Lovintz Tota headed to Morris County yesterday as they prepare to don Controversy’s green and black colours in their amateur bouts against United States opposition.

Roach is bristling with confidence after claiming a maiden win on foreign shores via unanimous decision against Jibril Marshall in the Frank Gervin Memorial in Florida in March.

The 16-year-old Bermuda Institute pupil said he is determined to improve his record of three wins from four welterweight fights.

“I think I’ve progressed since my March fight,” said Roach, whose only defeat was against Ngai Franklin, of Forty Rego’s Gym, a loss he later avenged.

“I’ve been sparring against Lovintz, Leo [Richardson, the Controversy Gym head coach] and George Cook. Every week I feel as though I’m getting stronger and faster. My last fight [against Marshall] has boosted my confidence; my pre-fight jitters are definitely gone.”

For Tota, it has been a frustrating wait for his amateur debut. The 33-year-old has had two bouts fall through on local cards and was not permitted to fight in Florida because he did not travel with the necessary boxing documents.

“Unfortunately, we had the passport issue last time around, but hopefully I have turned that into a positive,” said Tota, who plays football for Premier Division side Devonshire Cougars.

“I’ve had longer to work on my craft and I’m better physically and technically. I’ll be fighting another debutant and I’m more than ready. All the nerves are settled and I’m definitely ready.”

Despite his eagerness to step between the ropes for the first time, Tota said he intends on keeping a cool head and avoid becoming embroiled in a brawl.

“It’s my first fight, but I’ve learnt to be patient as I’ve been sparring guys like Michael Parsons, Robert Somner and Adrian Roach; fighters who have so much more experience than me,” said Tota, who also trains with Janos Lindsey of Just Box Limited.

“I certainly won’t be getting in the ring and expending all my energy; I know what that does to a fighter. I’ll look for a spot and pick it.”

Tota and Roach are being accompanied by Controversy coach Robert Somner, a regular fighter on amateur cards.

“I think Adrian is the one to watch from Bermuda right now, Somner said. “He’s someone we need to be putting all of our energy into.

“Lovintz is a natural athlete; boxing has been an easy transition for him from football and athletics. I hope he won’t be too anxious and just goes in there and stays calm. He’s got what it takes.”