It is strictly business for the local fighter who is contesting the WBC Asian Boxing Council Continental Middleweight Championship on February 20.

It will be one of the most prestigious title belts Ryan has challenged so far in his 13-fight professional career. 

If the occasion is not big enough already, the idea of fighting on foreign territory in the People's Republic of China will add to the build-up.

If successful, it has the potential to be a career-defining bout and "door opener" to a world ranking. 

"It's an honour to have this opportunity," Wade said.

"This is what we've been working toward.

"Hopefully I can go up there and get the job done."

The bout will be a 12-round contest, two bells longer than his typical 10-round fights.

Ryan has stepped up his "exhausting" training tempo to prepare for the added endurance demands should next week's bout go the full distance.

His Chinese opponent, Adili Abulimiti, holds a short but successful four-fight record for three wins (two by knockout) and a draw. 

Adili is ranked number two in the country for his middleweight division and is next in line for the title according to Ryan.

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But none of that fazed this country kid from Gunnedah who knew his strengths and how to use them to his advantage.

"We've been working on some sharp punches, speed work, different angles, that sort of thing," he said.

Ryan will also have to contend with freezing weather on his arrival in China. Snow was forecast on Friday where the bout is scheduled in Lanzhou City, Gansu Province and a low of minus 8 degrees was predicted for late next week.

The trip including flights and accommodation is part-funded by the World Boxing Council and his Chinese hosts. He will travel with his trainer David Syphers and sponsor Ross Whittaker from the CFMEU. 

Wade also thanked fellow sponsor Pete Briggs from ITC National for his support.

​Twitter: @samwoods010