Luke Paddock: It's make or break with the title

Bloxwich's Luke Paddock today admitted it's "make or break" when he hits the road in his quest to claim the Midlands light welterweight title next week.

'Cool Hand' will step into the lion's den at the Queens Theatre in Burslem a week on Saturday for fight night with Stoke's Josh McClaren,

They are set to co-challenge for the vacant belt in a role reversal for Paddock, who went through two opponents trying to get the title fight at Wolverhampton Civic Hall in October.

Champion Calum Cooper retired after failing a brain scan, while late replacement Chris Truman pulled out, leaving Simas Volosinas as the last man standing.

Paddock had to be content with adding the International Masters crown to British Bronze honours by a wide points decision, moving to eight straight wins as a professional.

McLaren is slightly less experienced but, like his adversary, has an unblemished paid record with one stoppage, also on a cut, after six contests.

Both rely on skill rather than power and minds are at rest - the Potteries stylist has given no cause for concern that he won't take his place in the ring in 12 days time.

Paddock said: "I have known of him for years, we both boxed for the amateur circuit although we never came across each other in the ring.

"I reckon this will be my toughest test yet. He's a tidy boxer so I have to be on top of my game, making him miss and then punishing him for it.

"It's make-or-break for me, I can't let this opportunity pass me by after everything I have come through. And I think facing a fellow boxer will bring the best out of me."

McLaren knows he has to put it all on the line, too, saying: "This is a massive step up for me but one that I'm 100 per cent ready to take.

"Not many boxers have fought for an area title after six fights, so it's a great chance to show what I'm about. I'll be in the shape of my life."

Paddock boxes outside of the area for the first time - he's that desperate to get his shot he gave up home advantage to McLaren.

The 22-year-old said: "I will be in hostile territory, I know that, and I need to keep that crowd quiet. Too much noise from them can sway the judges.

"I am sure there will be plenty of support for Josh on the night but, at the end of the day, they can't do the work for him.

"We could put a ring in his back garden or mine, it's still just going to be me and him in there. I need to focus on him and nothing else."

For more information and tickets for the show, call 07913 861 718.