Male v James in British title eliminator

The two all-Midlands former challengers to the English crown will clash over 10 rounds at the Copthorne Hotel on Saturday September 14 with the stakes sky-high for both fighters.

Male retired from the sport in February after losing a shot at the English featherweight title last November. His retirement lasted less than three months before he was back in the ring.

A warm-up points win over Elemir Rafael later, the punching postman is right back in the mix for domestic honours and, as he will be 31 on fight night, it's a 'must-not-lose' contest.

The same can be said for Coventry's James, 28, who was outpointed in an English title tilt at super feather last September and has boxed twice since, the latest against the late Billy Smith last month.

'Terrifying Troy,' like the 'Male Man,' has just one defeat on his pro record and one combatant will have to taste defeat again to decide the mandatory challenger to the British champion.

Who hold that title will be decided when on August 17 when Welshman Gary Buckland defends against Stephen Smith but there appears to be just as much riding on Male versus James.

Male said: "Becoming a British champion is what I have always wanted. If I can get Troy out the way, I'm one step closer to that goal."

James added: "It's a massive night for me. I will be attacking this fight but, no question, I have to be on my toes. There will be fireworks and plenty of non-stop action all the way through."

Two of Male's stable-mates from Shaun Cooper's gym in Brierley Hall appear on a three-fight under-card which includes traveller Lance Brooks, trained by Dudley's Paul Gough.

Steven Pearce boxes for the first time since losing his Midlands welterweight title in a compelling seventh round stoppage to Sam Eggington in May's all-Stourbridge battle.

It will be a short trip to the venue for Brierley Hill's Kyle 'the Style' Spencer, 23, a light middleweight growing in stature after six straights wins since turning pro in October 2011.

Brooks returned to boxing after a three-year break this year and the 26-year-old welterweight will be going for his third victory, having turned pro way back in March 2010.

Tickets are priced at £55 to include a sumptuous three-course meal. VIP ringside tables of 10 are available at £100 per person to include the meal and complimentary bottles of wine.

British lightweight champion Martin Gethin, and former British welterweight title holder Young Mutley will mingle with guests in the VIP section.

To purchase, call either 07780 505 743 or 07581 131 745.