Sponsor backs Sykes to claim Lonsdale belt

Mick Keith, of Engineered Systems Electrical Ltd (ESE), has sponsored Gary for his forthcoming British super featherweight title fight at Dewsbury Sports Centre.

The company logo will appear on Sykes’s shorts and is also on some of the Team Sykes leisure wear Gary is selling.

Mr Keith, from Upper Batley, said: “Gary is a role model everybody can look up to.

“I have four boys aged 13 and under and they all look up to Gary.

“It is going to be an amazing night for him after all the hard work he has put in.

“Sometimes people need a little assistance, we believe in him and we are really proud to be able to sponsor him.”

Sykes added: “People have been saying I may take Kays lightly because I’ve beaten him before but it has been totally the opposite.

“Before was for the English title but that means nothing compared to the British and we have had a great camp.

“I believe I’m a more mature fighter now and Julian (trainer McGowan) has said the way we’ve changed things has prolonged my career.

“I’ve always wanted to fight in Dewsbury. When I was British champion before, my fights were taken to Huddersfield but next week will be a dream come true.”

A fight of this magnitude is unlikely to come to Dewsbury again and Sykes is urging all local people to rally round as he bids to regain the British super featherweight title.

While not looking past Kays, victory would open the door to some huge fights for the 30-year old Dewsbury star and there is already talk of him appearing on the Tyson Fury v Dereck Chisora undercard in Manchester on July 26.