Grimsby boxer Kevin Hooper ready for Beachcomber showdown with Gary Sykes

GRIMSBY boxer Kevin Hooper is full of confidence ahead of the biggest fight of his pro career – declaring ‘this is my time’.

The undefeated 28-year-old, who is a triple title winner, faces tenacious Yorkshireman Gary Sykes in a 10-round contest at the Beachcomber, in Humberston, tomorrow night.

Victory in that could land ‘Super Hooper’ a British title shot – a potential addition to his Midlands Area, British Masters and International Masters belts.

Despite this being his first super-featherweight bout, the Grimsby man is expected to comfortably meet his weight target and, ultimately, use his natural advantage.

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Hooper said: “This is the best camp I have ever been involved in. It’s my first time at this weight, but I’m a tall fighter and there will be plenty of chance to use my strength.

“Most of the hard work is already done. It’s now a case of putting together my last-minute preparations, talking tactics and going for late-night runs.

“I don’t think he is the fighter he was. And we have different style. I’m more of a boxing boxer, whereas Gary likes a good scrap.

“I’m very confident of winning the fight. I’m feeling really good and will be looking to show that against Gary tomorrow night.”

Despite Hooper’s confidence, former British champion Sykes will undoubtedly pose the sternest test to his unblemished record (13-0-0) so far.

The Dewsbury man, 29 – who has won 22 of his 25 professional contests – is well renowned and was last year on the cusp of a World title fight.

Sykes was due to challenge highly-rated American, Adrien Broner, before Lamont Petersen’s failed drugs test forced the cancellation of his rematch with Amir Khan, and the entire scheduled undercard.

Following an impressive training camp, coach Sean Wood added: “Kev is the underdog, but that has been the case for his last two fights and we are happy with that.

“There is no problem with making the weight. But, we will have to see how that affects him on the night – Kev is fearless and we are going there to win the fight.

“If he wins we are talking about big time boxing coming back to Grimsby. Kev has already put the area on the map, and the whole country are watching to see what happens.”

Tickets for the Cleethorpes showdown are still available. If you would like to guarantee your seat at the Beachcomber, contact Sean Wood on 07525 752497.