Eager Sykes can’t wait to get back in action

Sykes will be looking to put on a good show in his first fight for seven months, as he aims to get back into the super featherweight title scene.

The 28-year-old from Dewsbury Moor defeated Mills on points in February 2010 as part of the build-up to his British title win over Andy Morris. Mills should come to the ring in decent shape following victory over veteran journeyman Sid Razak three weeks ago but Sykes will see this as a good chance to record a 20th win of his professional career.

“Mills is a really tough kid but if the stoppage came that would be great,” said Sykes. “He has spent some time out but came back with a good win and he may see his own career as being rejuvenated. This is a chance for me to get back into the mix.

“I will be straight back in the gym after tonight and we have already lined up sparring with Josh Warrington, who has got a big fight coming up.”

Tonight will also be a proud moment for Sykes’s trainer Julian McGowan as his charge will fight out of the Central Boxing Club in Batley for the first time.

Unbeaten Hull fighter Tommy Coyle tops the seven-fight bill as he meets Blackburn’s Graeme Higginson for the vacant Central Area lightweight title and boxing is scheduled to start at 7.30pm.

A coach to tonight’s fight will leave the Fox and Hounds pub in Hanging Heaton at 4.30pm and the price is £15, which will include free entry to Club Audio in Batley when it returns.

n Updates from the clash will appear on Twitter @reporterAndy1, while a fight report, reaction and pictures will appear in next week’s Reporter.