Stafford's Grant Cunningham in 'the Chase'
'The Chase' for the British Masters Bronze super middleweight title will end in the ring between Stafford's Grant Cunningham and Telford's Kieron Gray.
They will duel for the belt when professional boxing returns to Cannock at the Chase Leisure Centre on Saturday October 4.
It's the first title chance for Cunningham, the undefeated 30-year-old from Moss Pit competing in his 10th professional contest.
It breathes into life a dormant period for 'Maximus,' who only returned to action in July after 14 months out through work commitments.
He didn't drop a session in outpointing Welshman Jamie Ambler at Walsall Town Hall for a tune-up but he has been six rounds twice, with Bronze title fights contested over eight.
Gray is more than accustomed to the distance having held the belt before, stunning Jake Dyer with a points win by three rounds in February.
'Slammer' has also competed in losing efforts for the same title and for the International Masters Bronze crown down at middleweight.
The 36-year-old's experience in the prize ring is not to be taken lightly, particularly after holding Jamie Ball to a draw after the full 10 rounds for the Midlands light middleweight strap in 2010.
His latest opportunity is set to be his 40th paid bout, as skill faces will as "prospect" Cunningham goes toe-to-toe with "warrior" Gray.
Promoter Errol Johnson said: "We are really pleased to be putting on a show in Cannock.
"It's been a while since professional boxing has taken place in the area and we are going to give them a show to remember.
"We have got a great top of the bill encounter. Grant is a good prospect and Kieron is a real warrior so it will be a good fight.
"We have got a solid under-card, too, so I am looking forward to it."
It's a family affair on the under-card as cousins Josh and Kieran McLaren both feature, the latter making his professional debut.
Josh is managed by Frank Warren and has eased to four straight wins at welterweight, while Kieran turns over at light welter.
Another pair of Stoke fighters are on the bill in British Silver Masters lightweight champion Andy Keates and super middleweight Mark Till. Chester's Nathan Clarke also features at light welter.
Tickets, priced at £30 and £50 ringside, are available by calling 07891 263 167.
(Video courtesy of UKO Boxing)
