Sykes returns to title trail

Although fighting for the English title is a step down for the 28-year-old, Sykes knows victory will put him back in line to contest his old British title.

Sykes said: “It’s going to be hard as he is boxing a former British champion and will up his game.

“He is fighting in his home town and will have the crowd behind him, so I know I can’t let it get close.

“If I lose, there would be nowhere for me to go but boxing is all about levels and I have fought at the higher level, although I won’t be getting over confident.”

Sykes has also been passing on tips to gym mate James Ancliffe, who meets Lewis Jones over four three minute rounds in Doncaster on February 15.

Sykes added: “Our gym is really buzzing and its good that we are all together.

“I’ve been helping James out and we’re hoping he can go out and get a win.”

n A coach to Cleethorpes will be running from the Fox & Hounds pub in Hanging Heaton. Contact Ben Halmshaw on 07876 726859 for details.