The Midlands mild heavyweight title ought to be subsequent within the offing for Josh Stokes if he can get by way of his first six-rounder.
He will get much-needed ring time on the Eastside Rooms, on Woodcock Avenue in Birmingham, as a part of BCB Promotions’ closest card to Christmas, set for Thursday evening (December 22).
Stokes hoped to compete for the long-vacant space crown on the exact same present, however couldn’t discover an opponent in time, though co-challengers have been approached.
Nobody has boxed for the belt since 2008, when defending champion Tyrone Wright outpointed Paul David to retain his standing.
Ricky Summers and Joe Sherriff have been scheduled to field for the strap, in late 2017, however the contest was cancelled, leaving the title nonetheless up-for-grabs.
Stokes is subsequent in line, however must get lively once more, having spent almost eight months out of motion, final beating Harry Matthews in April.
That was his third outing since December of final yr, which noticed him make a comeback after 4 years on the sidelines, lengthy faraway from his 2017 debut.
The 29-year-old, from West Bromwich, stands at 7-0 with two TKOs, each in two rounds, stopping Raimonds Sneidze and later retiring Jonathan Castano.
Since his final day trip, the boxing scaffolder has grow to be a father for the third time, with son Jesse becoming a member of sisters Harper and Maisie, and is engaged to fiance Lauren.
Stokes mentioned: “I’ve had a little bit of a lay-off once more, because of a few points, however I’ve carried on coaching. The brand new child has stored me busy, however I’m fitter and stronger than ever.
“This battle was meant to be for the Midlands title however, hopefully, that can occur in April or Might now. I’d even sneak in one other six-rounder, earlier than then, if I can.
“I’ll see what choices there are for me, however to go for a title has been a very long time coming for me. I believe that I’m prepared for large fights and the Midlands is simply the beginning of it.
“I reckon I may do the ten rounds now, however I’ve by no means achieved six earlier than both. I do know ‘Poochi’ (Lewis van Poetsch, opponent) and he’ll give me some good rounds.
“I’ve needed to construct up in direction of it. Clearly, having 4 years off didn’t assist, however I reside the lifetime of a boxer now, greater than I ever have earlier than.
“I’ve obtained a nutritionist (Pete Bell) and I really feel like I’ve made a variety of progress this yr, since I began working with ‘Ghenty’ (Richie Ghent, coach).
“I’m trying ahead to having a few rounds to play with and I believe that it’s going to swimsuit my type. If I catch him, I do know I can damage him, however I don’t exit in search of stoppages.”