Sykes’ dream British title shot coming to Dewsbury

Sykes had been mandated to fight Cromer’s Liam Walsh for the vacant British super featherweight crown in London on April 12.

However, Walsh is understood to have picked up a cut in sparring and Sykes will now face Manchester’s Jonny Kays, with promoters looking to stage the fight in Dewsbury.

After numerous set-backs, Sykes admits fighting for the British title in Dewsbury would be one of his career highlights.

Speaking to The Reporter Sykes said: “Having the chance to fight for the British title and win the Lonsdale belt outright in my home town would be a dream come true.

“I’ve had a lot of set backs but this would make up for those.

“Steve Wood manages both of us and wants to make the fight in Dewsbury. He has said we could move it to Huddersfield but I don’t want that, the dream is to fight here.”

The British Boxing Board of Control rubber stamped the title fight yesterday afternoon, with a stipulation that the winner must defend against Walsh.

Sykes defeated Kays on points to defend the English super featherweight title at the Sheffield Arena last May.

Since Sykes vacated the English belt, Kays has gone on to claim it and last Saturday secured a narrow points win over Lee Glover in Oldham to set up the Sykes British title fight.

A date and exact venue have still to be confirmed but it is likely to take place at the end of April or beginning of May, with Dewsbury Sports Centre understood to be the leading contender to stage the bill, which would also be likely to include fellow Dewsbury professional Tony Aitcheson.