Barrett was victorious against Costin Ion in November and Gill defeated Michael Conlan by seventh-round stoppage a month later, meaning both fighters have momentum that they would like to continue past Saturday's bout.

The winner of their fight would take a step towards a future world title bout, meaning motivation should not be an issue for either man.

As Gill explained on Thursday, both fighters feel like they are above the level they've been competing in and Saturday's fight presents a prime opportunity to confirm that feeling.

“For sure it’s must-win," Gill told the media at a pre-fight press conference. "If either of us want to fight for a world title, we’ve got to win this fight.

"That’s why it’s so exciting because there’s a lot on the line. It’s a fight everyone has been looking forward to, two Brits that are above British and European level, it makes it exciting, there’s a lot on the line for us both.

"When the fight was put to me, I said yes straight away. Not because I dislike Zelfa, I like him, he’s a good guy and I have respect for him and his team, but when we get in the ring on Saturday, the person you are fighting isn’t a person, they are just a target, and you have to go for that target.”

Live on DAZN PPV: Haney vs. Garcia on April 20.  Click here for details.