BOXING: Bramford boxer Steve Spartacus is preparing to move a step closer to a British title shot. The 24-year-old light-heavyweight will be hoping to maintain his 100 per cent pro record when he steps into the ring with Midlands Area champ Darren Ashton, from Stoke-on-Trent.

By Mel Henderson

BRAMFORD boxer Steve Spartacus is preparing to move a step closer to a British title shot.

The 24-year-old light-heavyweight, pictured below, will be hoping to maintain his 100 per cent pro record when he steps into the ring with Midlands Area champ Darren Ashton, from Stoke-on-Trent.

And Spartacus, one of the most colourful figures in the sport, won't be short of support at the York Hall, Bethnal Green, in a week's time.

He said: "I already have around 150 fans travelling up there to give me their backing and I'll be doing my utmost to reward them with a good performance."

But Spartacus, who even fancies his chances of contesting a world title bout in the future, is looking for a better display than the last time he met Ashton.

He recalled: "He gave me nightmares before I beat him on points. It was a big step-up in class for me at the time.

"But it was at the end of the night at Manchester Arena, when most of the crowd had gone home. It will be a different atmosphere this time."

Spartacus will take on Ashton over four rounds, seeking his ninth straight success since taking the plunge to turn professional just 14 months ago.

That impressive record has seen him move up from 32 in the British rankings last year to a

current position of 11th.

He said: "I'm keeping busy – this will be my fifth fight in as many months. It's important to get another win. He's a bit of a spoiler and has beaten some good boys, but I'll get to him.

"My training has been going well and I'm very fit. I'm virtually down in London all the time at the moment, with three sessions every day."

Spartacus was boosted by a fourth round victory last time out, when he conceded a stone in weight to top-rated cruiserweight Big Red Murray.

And signing for promoter Frank Warren represented another major step in the right direction. He admitted: "It's a big thing for me. Frank has the Sky Sports contract and will get me the fights I want.

"I really believe I'm on course for a British title shot in 18 months or so and the world crown after that. I'm giving it everything I've got.

"I'm in no rush, but I don't mind locking myself away to train and prepare. I'm so dedicated and determined that no one will get in my way."