Now the professional boxer, 22, is preparing to compete for the Light Heavy Weight Pan Pacific Title, and possible placement in the International Boxing Federation’s top 20. 

“He sent me to sort me out but it never left me,” Clark said. 

Saturday’s title bout at the Melbourne Pavilion is Clark’s biggest fight to date.

“This is such a fantastic opportunity – to fight for the Light Heavy Weight Pan Pacific Title – lots of great Australian fighters have held that title,” he said.

“It’s a massive stepping stone in a career to hold the title.

“For a country kid to come up to the city and make a mark it’s a big thing. 

“You can’t say no to opportunities like this, so all you can do it grab it by both hands.

“I’ve been lucky enough and my skills have got me this far so who knows if I’ll get further.”

Clark will meet Geelong’s Clint Alderton in the ring.

The pair’s last fight was nominated as ‘fight of the year’, after Alderton won by a single point. 

During the fight Clark’s knee gave way forcing him to fight virtually one legged for five rounds. 

Clark said he was ready for the rematch and quietly confident about his odds.

“I had a really bad string of luck in the last fight,” he said.

“The best man wins on the night of course and he was lucky enough to throw more punches and win on points.

“I proved to myself I could push through that knee problem and keep fighting. 

“It built up a lot of confidence.

“It took a lot of determination to forget the pain, push through the rounds and make sure I did my absolute best.”

Clark believes he has continued to improve since last facing Alderton.

“I reckon I’ve got an opportunity to come out on top,” he said,

“Clint has gotten older and I’ve gotten older but I’m young at heart, I’m still only 22 and he’s coming up on his late 30s.

“He’s aging but I’m just maturing up and I’ve really been stepping up the training and preparation for a rematch.”