McGowan predicts special display in Sykes’ title fight

Gary Sykes is in superb shape as he bids to win the Lonsdale belt in front of his home fans on Saturday.

McGowan is expecting the best performance of the 30-year-old’s career as Sykes attempts to regain the British title and win the Lonsdale belt outright.

Sykes has been in blistering form in the build up and has spent this week putting the final preparations to the biggest night of his career.

McGowan explained: “We always have a tradition of doing 12-hard fast rounds on the pads on fight week and I can honestly say Monday’s session was the best we’ve had by far.

“The way Gary looked and moved and the power in which he was throwing punches was absolutely incredible.

“His speed and fitness in the 12th round was just ridiculous. It is the first time in eight years that I just didn’t know what to say.

“Gary is physically ready, the weight is no issue and we are just looking forward to Saturday night now.

“Jonny Kays is going to bring his A-game, I’m sure of that.

“I don’t make claims lightly but Gary is the best super featherweight in Britain. That is why you have seen Stephen Smith vacate the belt and Liam Walsh pull out twice.

“Gary has changed his lifestyle and we’ve changed his training regime and I think over the next two years he is going to become formidable in the super featherweight division.

“We have spent 32 months in the wilderness, getting back to where we are now.

“We respect Kays and are expecting 12 hard rounds but this is the best Gary Sykes I’ve seen and it doesn’t matter what game Kays brings, he can’t live with that. On any other night Kays may win a British title but not on Saturday.”