DORSET’S Iain Weaver last night edged a step closer to his Olympic dream after registering a convincing victory in the preliminary round of the Strandja Cup in Bulgaria.

The Ferndown fighter carded a 14-7 win over Georgia’s Koba Pkhakadze to set up a medal-decider with Welshman Joe Cordina in today’s quarter-final in Sofia.

Cordina, who beat Weaver at the GB Championships in November, also recorded an emphatic triumph yesterday, seeing off home favourite Ismetov Airin 14-7.

Weaver is battling with London’s Martin Ward for the mantle of Team GB’s number one lightweight and a medal in Bulgaria would significantly boost his chances of competing in the 60kg class at the Games later this year.

Speaking to the Daily Echo just minutes after the bout had finished, Weaver’s father Jay told the Daily Echo: “Iain said he boxed very well, using plenty of body shots and head and body movement. He said he didn’t get out of second gear and was very controlled.

“He caught his opponent with some big shots in the last round and won quite convincingly. His trainer said it was the best he had seen him box for a long time.

“Joe Cordina is on the development squad for Team GB and Iain is on the podium squad so there will be a bit of rivalry in their quarter-final.

“Iain didn’t box too well when Joe beat him at Bethnal Green in the GB Championships and lost on a points decision. It wasn’t a very good performance but Iain thinks he can reverse it no problem.”

The winner of today’s last-eight showdown is guaranteed at least a bronze medal and will progress to the semi-final tomorrow. The final takes place on Saturday.