CHORLEY boxing star Jack Catterall is to return to the ring in Dubai as he waits on a world title shot.
The unbeaten 24-year-old is likely to challenge WBO and WBC champion Jose Ramirez in the first part of 2020, the American set to next face Ukranian Viktor Postol before the year is out.
Catterall will keep busy in the Middle East when he takes on former EBU European Union super-lightweight champion Timo Schwarzkopf on MTK Global's show at the Caesars Palace on November 22.
“Everyone knows how badly I want that world title shot and how hard I’ve worked for it," said the former British champion.
"I can almost touch it now and there’s no way I’m going to take my eye off the ball with someone as dangerous as Schwarzkopf standing in my way.
“I’m going to make an example of him.
"It’s my chance to send another message to the 140lb world champions.
"None of them should be getting comfortable because once I win one of the world title belts, I’m coming for the others.
“I can’t wait to fight in Dubai as well.
"I’ve watched the shows MTK Global have been putting on there and it’s an upcoming and exciting place to box. It’s very much a global sport these days and I’m looking forward to showing a new audience what I can do.”
“It’s important we keep Jack busy while we wait for the outcome of Jose Ramirez vs. Viktor Postol," said Catterall's promoter Frank Warren.
“Jack is more than deserving of his world title shot, for two belts no less, but Timo is a solid opponent and there will be no room for mistakes come November 22.”
While Catterall has 13 knockouts in 24 wins, German Schwarzkopf has lost three of his 23 fights.
The Chorley fighter, the WBO's Inter-Continental champion since March 2015, was last in action in April when he stopped Oscar Amador in three rounds.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here