The wait is nearly over – Dudley’s Darren McDermott is just three days away from his return to the ring at Birmingham’s National Indoor Arena.

‘The Black Country Bodysnatcher’ steps up to the plate as the challenger, gunning against Coventry’s Steve Bendall for the English title in an all-Midlands battle on the Sky-televised show.

Eight months have passed since McDermott was controversially stopped by British champion Wayne Elcock and, if he wants to compete for that title again, defeat of his opponent is a must.

The middleweight has even ushered into his preparation something to spur him on a little more – he has watched the video of his last fight for the first time.

He said: “It brought a few memories back and just reminded me how hungry I am. To get in there and get that English title is just a barrier I need to get through now. My preparation has gone fantastic, I feel great and more than ready.

“For a first fight back, I didn’t want an opponent where I could just go in there and knock him out after a couple of rounds. I wanted a fight where I have got to work for it – and I know Steve will make me work for it. I am a challenger -which means I have got to work twice as hard.

McDermott’s army of fans have had a long wait to see him back in action, now that wait is nearly over.

He added: “I have got hundreds of fans coming over to the NIA on coaches from Dudley, my hometown has always supported me.  After 1,700 fans at the Elcock fight, that really is a great boost for me. I can’t thank them enough for their support.

“Now I will put on a show for them.”

To cheer McDermott on at the NIA, call 07738 427 828 for tickets.