O'Hara ready for shot at Sykes

Patrolling Breen's gym after one of his final sessions before heading over to England, Kevin O'Hara looked focused and confident ahead of his British title clash with Gary Sykes. Paul McCloskey was soon to enter the ring for a sparring session with Colin Lynes ahead of a specially arranged media event on a warm Wednesday afternoon in Belfast. Kevin soon exited the hot-house, his work already completed, and will surely now be counting down to what may prove his last big chance.

Speaking to Andy Watters of The Irish News, O'Hara revealed the intense nature of his preparations. "I'll be leaving nothing in the ring. I'm feeling fit and strong. I'm ready to go.

"I know I can go twelve rounds and he's not a big puncher - he can't hit," added a defiant "Sweet Pea".

O'Hara's last taste of title action came in June 2009 when the Belfastman conceded a narrow points verdict to Ricky Burns for the Commonwealth super-featherweight strap. The 28-year-old has yet to achieve his potential in the pro game after a lengthy spell as a top-class amateur.

O'Hara has been engaging in intense runs up the steep inclines of Northern Ireland's hills. He also paid testament to the fitness of his opposite number, Sykes, who proved his worth when outlasting Andy Morris for this very title in March.

"He's a fit kid, but I'll just have to match his work-rate and do a number on him," he continued.

"Every shot I throw, I'll show him no respect, that's the mentality I have in my head."