MARTIN WARD has been backed to claim the first title of his career when he returns to the ring on Sunday, May 20.

The County Durham boxer, who has lost one of his first 15 fights as a professional, will be intent on winning the International Masters bantamweight belt at the Rainton Meadows Arena.

And Phil Jeffries, the promoter of the show, said: "Ward is up there with the very best bantamweights in the country. We're hoping that this title will be the first of many, because Martin really is a great little talent."

On the undercard will be a number of other exciting prospects from the North-East, all hoping to fighting for honours in the future.

Gateshead's Robert Ismay, who scored a spectacular first round knockout in his last fight, faces his toughest test to date when he takes on the experienced Phil Goodwin from Hull.

Another unbeaten fighter who will be looking to make it five in a row is light-middleweight Mark Clauzel.

Fishburn's Gary Fox is hoping to fight for the Northern Area title at Sunderland's Stadium of Light in July, but will first be after his eighth victory at Rainton Meadows.

Middlesbrough's Shafiq 'Chubzy' Asif is hoping for his second paid success. Debutants Mohammed Waqas (Middlesbrough), Lee Mould (Sunderland) and Anthony 'Babyface' Nelson (South Shields)are also on the bill.

* For ticket information contact 07747 611020