DAVE Garside is expecting an early firework display in Hartlepool this year.

The promoter and manager of Michael Hunter can't wait to see his prize asset take on Esham Pickering at the town's Borough Hall on Friday, October 28.

Up for grabs are the British, European and Commonwealth super-bantamweight belts and Garside, who is co-promoting the event which is being screened live on Sky Sports, said: "This fight is massive, it really is. We've got the best two fighters in Europe together.

"It's like the two best football teams in Europe playing each other.

"Michael is in great shape - I don't think there is a fitter boxer in the country. He is hungry and has the motivation.

"Both myself and Sky have been chasing Esham Pickering for 12 months to get this fight on and now we have it. Sky have had world title bouts to think about, but they know this one will be special.

"The night is going to be a big one for the town and it's great to see the response we are getting.

"Tickets are going very, very well - it may well be the case that it is a sell-out by early next week. There are very, very few ringside left and not a lot for the hall.

"I would urge people to get them now or they may miss out.''

Garside is also excited with the prospect of Chris Burton catching the eye.

Darlington heavyweight Burton made his professional bow in June, seeing off David Ingley at the Tall Trees Hotel in Yarm.

He comes up against a Yugoslavian opponent this time, who has four KOs in 11 fights.

"Chris is developing a very good name for himself,'' said Garside. "He's sparring well and Sky are very interested in him.

"This will be a good test - his opponent is the sort of calibre Audley Harrison was taking on in his tenth or 15th pro fight, so it should be a good test.''

* Tickets are on sale in Hartlepool at at North East Securities, Lowthian Road; Cuba Menswear, York Road; Advance Motors, Burn Road; Yes Magazine, Avenue Road; Ellwood's Fitness World or by contacting Dave on 07973 792588 or Neil on (01429) 232024.

* Hartlepool teenager Michael Hadfield is guaranteed a bronze medal at the 2005 World Cadet Boxing Championships in Liverpool after a terrific 27-18 quarter-final victory over US No.1 Robert Rodriguez.