YOUNG footballers dream of playing in the AFL, while cricketers hope to one day represent Australia in an Ashes Test.

But for boxers, becoming world champion is the sport's pinnacle.

That's what will be on the line for Greenvale's Blake ­Caparello when he steps into the ring on Thursday night.

Caparello, 27, will battle American world number 18 Allan Green at Melbourne Pavillion in Flemington, vying for the International Boxing Organisation light heavyweight title.

The title has an illustrious list of former holders including the legendary Roy Jones Jnr, who held it for more than three years before losing to Antonio Tarver.

Another champ, Bernard Hopkins, also claimed the belt with wins over Tarver in 2006 and Jean Pascal in 2011.

They are some of the world's biggest names in boxing, and now the lesser-known Caparello has the chance to put his name up in lights.

"I'm very excited, it's a massive opportunity,'' Caparello said.

"We've been looking at the fighter (Allan Green) for a while now.''

It will no doubt be the Aussie's toughest bout in his 18-fight career, which includes 17 wins (six by knockout) and a draw.

Ranked 23 in the world, ­Caparello is rated the best light heavyweight in Australia, but knocking off the higher-rated American remains a challenge.

"It's definitely a massive step up,'' he said.

"I've studied him, I've had an eye on him for a while.

"He's a very neat boxer. But I box better, I have better footwork.''

Trainer Sam La Bruna said there was no pressure on ­Caparello going into Thursday's fight.

"It's a win-win fight for Blake,'' La Bruna said.

"If Allan Green loses, the pressure is on him. There's no pressure if Blake loses.

"But we won't lose to Allan Green.''

But with a world of opportunities set to open up if ­Caparello can secure the ­title, his camp said it wasn't looking too far ahead.

For tickets, contact Jenny on 0402 323 847.

Blake Caparello is a Leader Senior Sports Star nominee.