Ticket rush for Sykes title fight

This is a shock for the Sykes camp, who were hoping to have at least 400 tickets available for his supporters for what is sure to be an exciting contest. But they have been told by the promoters, the Ricky Hatton organisation, that there will be a maximum of 200, despite the fact the Ponds Forge venue holds 2,000.

Trainer Julian McGowan has already had enquiries for 40 tickets and Mark Waters, who normally handles the distribution, is asking other fans to apply for tickets as soon as possible. His number is 07890 071883.

Welshman Buckland will have a healthy following while many people from the Heavy Woollen area followed Sykes on the last occasion he defended his title, against Carl Johanneson in Huddersfield and many will want to go again.

This is regarded as a huge test for Sykes, who was knocked out in the first round by Buckland when they met in the Prizefighter series and it would be a pity if his supporters missed out.