Buckland bids to emulate sparring partner Selby

Gary Buckland is bidding to become the second fighter from his gym inside a week to claim a British title. Hatton Promotions’ Cardiff fighter challenges Gary Sykes for the British super-featherweight championship at Sheffield’s Ponds Forge Arena on Saturday night (Sept 24).

His scrap comes days after stable mate and sparring partner, Lee Selby stunned Stephen Smith to become British and Commonwealth featherweight king.

It is ironic that Sykes and Smith have also being putting each other through their paces in the gym.

Close pal Selby said: “Gary is in great shape.

“He was the perfect sparring for Smith and I have been ideal to help him prepare for Sykes.

“I am faster and sharper than Sykes and I believe he will knock him out again.”

Buckland beat Sykes in 45 seconds at a Prizefighter competition last year, but says: “People are saying I will knock him out again, but I am just looking to win on points.

“I have had a great nine week training camp and I am so fit I would be able to do 15 rounds.

“We’re just a few days away and I am looking forward to getting in the ring and enjoying the fight.”