Boxing: Arthur a man with a plan after meeting

Published on Saturday 8 August 2009 11:08

CAPITAL boxer Alex Arthur admitted that he was delighted by the plans that have emerged as a result of talks with his manager and promoter Frank Warren.

"Frank and I not only both agreed a new promotional deal but he also unveiled his plans for me for the remainder of 2009 which are aimed at getting me a world lightweight title fight by February or March 2010," said Arthur.

"I will have my first fight in Belfast on 9 October although no opponent has yet been identified and then on 11 December I will fight again in what will be an eliminator for a world title challenge.

"I must win both of these fights in impressive style to guarantee my world title shot but this plan is a real tonic to me while I take time out from training for a month.

"At least I know I now have definite targets to aim for – I hate having to train and spar with just vague goals in mind.

''Ideally I'd like to fight next year for the WBO lightweight title but I'll happily challenge for the WBC or WBA versions."

Arthur's coach Terry McCormack commented: "Now we know what Alex has ahead of him I aim to organise top-class sparring for him at the Lochend gym. No matter who the opponent is Belfast is never an easy place to win so I'll try to ensure that Alex Arthur is in the best condition and frame of mind of his entire pro career because we can't afford any slip-ups now.''

Meanhwile, Scottish youth light-flyweight champion Bryce Stewart has been listed in the world amateur ratings for the first time to the delight of his club boss, Jimmy Dunn who said: "Bryce was on fire, form-wise, last season so this world rating is no more than he deserves.''