Male's last tune up in Birmingham

Cradley Heath featherweight Chris Male believes his final tune-up in Birmingham on January 28 will set him up for his 'money in the bank' Midlands title shot.

The punching postman is the No 1 contender after winning an eliminator last year but will not be a part of the contest to decide the new champion, with Walsall's Steve Gethin and Leicester's Del Rogers set to square off for the vacant belt in the second city on February 22.

Male - who has never lost a round in seven fights - will instead take on Reading's Ibrar Riyaz fighting a six, threes for the first time, after stepping aside to allow the fate of the title to be decided.

It's his choice, as the 27-year-old feels one more big test is needed before his shot at the big one.

With that in mind, 'The Male Man' plans to make an example of Riyaz at the Holiday Inn as part of a four-fight dinner show hosted by John Conteh.

And when the dust settles, the new champion will be in his sights.

He said: "This is the last big test for me before I go for the title. I just one to get this last hurdle out of the way and then, as far as I am concerned, I am ready. All I want to do is not rush, I have got no reason to take a stupid chance and then come unstuck.

"I don't have to worry about my title shot, because I am the No 1 contender. When I get in there for the belt, I want to be ready.

"This fight is necessary for me, I want the time under my belt and every moment of it is more experience for me.

"I feel like everything is coming together. I am relaxing more, picking my shots more and I feel very confident."

To be there for fight night, contact promoter Paul 'PJ' Rowson on 07976 283 157.