Walsall's Joel Ryan preparing for Midlands welterweight title

Gethin, Walsall's favourite boxing son, won the belt last month and the young protege is hoping for his own slice of glory at Burton Town Hall on Friday March 1.

The 22-year-old takes on Derby's Luke Gallear for the vacant title and trains out of the same gym as Gethin, Errol Johnson's Wednesbury Boxing Academy.

Ryan is now hoping to emulate his stable-mate, saying: "I would love to have the career Martin has had and one day win a British title.

"He's a great fighter and a really nice lad. He's quiet and does his talking in the ring. That's how I am.

"I know I have got a long way to go but my dream is to follow in Martin's footsteps, starting with this Midland title."

Ryan, who has four wins and three defeats on a seven fight record, hasn't boxed since his narrow points defeat to Chris Higgs for the British Masters title last June.

Gallear has been more active, fighting three times in 2012, but with mixed results. The 28-year-old beat Jason Nesbitt in April, drew with Matt Seawright in July but then lost against debutant Tony Dixon in December.

The pair's records suggest it has the makings of a real 50-50 fight, but Ryan is confident of recording a much-needed victory to kick-start his pro career.

He said: "I'm looking forward to it. I haven't fought for a while and I need to get back out there. I have done plenty of sparring and am in good shape but I need to be fighting more regularly.

"My aim is to win this fight and be more active in 2013. Luke is a decent boxer and people tell me he's a nice lad. We will both be going for it, so it's going to be a good fight."

Tickets for the Errol Johnson-promoted show in Burton are priced at £30 unreserved seating and £50 Ringside. They are available from the Town Hall Box Office on 0128 350 8547.

Doors open at 7pm, with boxing commencing at 8pm.