Decky ‘The Diamond’ Dalton is out to prove that he is worthy of fighting on the biggest stages in the world at BAMMA 28 on February 24, when he meets UFC veteran Jonathan Brookins at featherweight.

The Irish Mirror broke the news of the bout on Saturday morning, and Dalton is adamant that he is doing everything in his power to get back in the win column following his hard-fought loss to Peter Queally at Cage Legacy 1 in late October.

With Bellator co-promoting the event, it seems as though the Belfast native is confident that he can convince the international promotion to sign him up with a big win on the night.

“Everyone will stand up and take notice after this fight,” Dalton told the Irish Mirror.

“In my last fight with Peter Queally, I was coming out of a very bad period in my life. My body wasn’t in the place that it needed to be in as a professional fighter.

“I haven’t stopped training since the Queally fight. I’m going into this Belfast fight a lot fitter and my weight is a lot lower than it has been in a long time.

“I know I have to have everything perfect for this fight. This is the opportunity I have been waiting for. I know big things will happen if I get a win here, so I’m making sure I’m preparing myself better than ever. I can’t let this opportunity slip through my fingers.”

He added: “The fact that I can show everyone that I’m worthy of a fight against a UFC veteran is definitely motivating me ahead of this one. I can’t let the occasion get to me. I have to be focused so I can break through to the next level.”

Dalton has always been known for his proficiency in the striking realms and he believes that he can find Brookins’ snooze button in the first round of their clash if he can force the American to strike with him.

“If I can force Brookins to strike I can see me finishing him at the midway point, or towards the end of the first round. I really don’t think that he’ll be able to take too many of my power shots.

“Saying that, I’m preparing myself to go the distance. In this game you can never be sure what’s going to happen. You’ve got to be ready to go the full hog.

“I’m really looking to an exclamation point on this win. I need to make a statement, so if the opportunity presents itself I’ll definitely be looking the finish,” he said.

Known for his passionate and vocal following, Dalton is expecting a good crowd in Belfast for the SSE Arena event.

“I’m expecting a big crowd. I’ve got a loyal following and they know there’s guaranteed action every time I step foot in the cage. The fight hasn’t even been announced and I already have people getting on to me about tickets. It’s going to be a great night.”

@PetesyCarroll