Sykes is determined to re-capture British title

The British Boxing Board of Control has guaranteed Dewsbury man Sykes a shot at his former super featherweight crown before the end of 2013.

Gary Buckland will defend his title ahainst Stephen Smith in Cardiff on August 17 and the picture will then become clearer as to who Sykes will fight.

The 29-year-old said: “If Buckland wins, we fully expect him to vacate the title and move on to bigger things.

“If that happens, I could be fighting for the vacant British title pretty soon. If Smith wins, he will be ordered to make a first defence against me.

“I am ready to go and am working towards winning back the British title.

“I’ve had a break and I’m raring to go and believe my shot at the British title will come at the perfect time, hopefully in my next fight.”

Sykes had been in the gym from December to June, as he won and then defended the English super featherweight title, first ending the unbeaten record of Kevin Hooper in Cleethorpes and then defeating durable Ashton fighter Jonny Kays in Sheffield.

It now seems likely that Sykes will have to vacate his English title as he steps back up to British level.

Sykes took time out, having a well deserved holiday, but was back in the gym on Monday alongside Central Boxing Club stablemate Josh Warrington and a new face, Bradford lightweight Femi Fehintola.

Sykes added: “Femi has joined us at the gym and with me and Josh there is a good buzz and we are all working to bring home titles.”

Unbeaten Warrington is set to defend his English featherweight title at Leeds Town Hall on Friday September 13.