GRIMSBY boxer Kevin Hooper will fight British Masters light-welterweight title challenger Kristian Laight when professional boxing returns to the area on Sunday.

Laight, 30, from Nuneaton, will provide the biggest test of Hooper's pro career when the pair clash at the Beachcomber.

Laight fought Jay Morris for the British Masters title last month, losing 98-95 on points.

But Hooper, who has four wins from four fights to his name, believes victory would prove he is edging closer to a title shot of his own.

And he is determined to showcase his emerging talent in front of a packed home crowd.

"I'll have to put in a smart boxing performance to beat him, he's no mug," said Hooper.

"He's a bit of a journeyman, but is tough and always fit.

"He's capable of upsetting my homecoming, but that's not going to happen – no chance.

"If I box smart and can see him off using good technique, I will prove to myself that I'm starting to knock on the door of a title shot.

"It's great to be bringing professional boxing back to the area.

"And if the show goes well another one could take place by Christmas."

The show, organised by manager David Coldwell, will mark the first professional boxing card the resort has hosted since Joe Frater's last Christmas show in 2008.

Hooper went on: "It's the first time as a pro I'll be fighting in Cleethorpes.

"My fans have offered great support travelling to my fights in Rotherham, so I'll expect an even bigger following on Sunday.

Former Mariner Curtis Woodhouse, a training partner of Hooper's, has said he plans to attend.

Two days' earlier the 30-year-old lightweight, nicknamed the Driffield Destroyer, takes on Yorkshire rival Stefy Bull of Conisbrough.

Barnsley's Josh Wale, whom Hooper helped train up for the Prizefighter Super Bantamweights contest screened live on Sky Sports, will also be in the crowd.

Hooper said: "It'll be great to have some stars in the audience.

"I think Curtis will stop his opponent.

"He's in great shape, I think it could be an early night."

Former Grimsby Amateur Boxing Club fighter Hooper said training with his coach Sean Wood has gone "really well".

Amateur Tom Ramsden joined in training and has been a "big support", Hooper added.

Neil Beevers, Gary Reid, Ali Shah, Nasser Al Harbi, Nav Mansouri and Joe Catchpole feature on the undercard.

Tickets, priced £25 and £45 (ringside) are available and can be ordered by contacting Hooper on 07532 380456.

Doors open at 1.30pm, with the boxing starting at 3pm.