Title victory would secure Sykes’ legacy in Dewsbury

Sykes has spent this week going through his final preparations ahead of the Dewsbury Sports Centre showdown, while the official weigh-in takes place at Dewsbury Town Hall today (Friday, 1pm).

The weigh-in is open to the public and Sykes is urging supporters to turn up and create an atmosphere.

The 30-year-old said: “It would be great if the public came out and made the weigh-in an event in itself and I’m sure the Dewsbury people can make a lot of noise, like they will at the fight.

“I know Kays likes to try and intimidate his opponents at the weigh-in by staring them out so that should be fun.”

Trainer Julian McGowan admits tomorrow will be an emotional night for all concerned but is confident Sykes can deliver the British title and claim the coveted Lonsdale belt outright.

McGowan said: “Gary’s only focus at the moment is winning the belt but I think when he looks back he will see this fight as a special moment in his career.

“We have fought away from home for most of our careers, in London and Liverpool, as well as a little closer at Huddersfield but we are Dewsbury people and (tomorrow) gives Gary a chance to secure a legacy in his home town.

“I think it will be poignant that, after 32 months in the wilderness, Gary gets to do this at home, in front of his own people.”

With fellow Dewsbury Moor fighter Tony Aitcheson also on the bill it promises to be a memorable occasion for the whole town.