Brymbo boxer Aron Canning has targeted a title challenge following his latest victory.
Following a year away from the sport, the unbeaten 31-year-old light heavyweight triumphed on points against veteran fighter Elvis Dube in Stoke last weekend.
Canning's 39-37 verdict in a closely-matched bout took his record to 4-0, and believes the hard-fought victory can re-ignite his push for a championship belt.
Reflecting on the fight, he said: "It was nice to get back in the ring after such a long time.
"It was a tough fight and it certainly wasn't all one-way.
"He wobbled me with a few big right hands, but I connected with some big hits too and felt that I dominated the fight overall.
"I did feel a bit ring-rusty and felt like I was dusting off the cobwebs a little bit, so it definitely wasn't a case of me having at all my own way.
"I had to work hard for it and for me it was more of a mental challenge than anything after having so much time out.
"When you're stepping back into boxing after a year out there are nerves and it's a case of overcoming them and focusing on your ability.
"I did that and was delighted to come away with a win against a decent fighter."
Having rediscovered his love for the sport, Canning has now targeted a run of victories to enhance his profile further.
He expects to compete in 'three or four' further bouts in the next year, with a view to boosting his title-fight prospects.
He added: "I think if I can get to seven or eight fights unbeaten by the end of next year then I'll be in a strong position.
"That's the target, but for that to happen there's a lot of work and training ahead of me.
"I made a few mistakes last weekend, which can happen when you're not fighting regularly.
"I'll be back in the gym and working on a few things between now and then to get myself to where I need to be .
"It's about having the drive and commitment to improve now, so I can get to the next level and push on from there."
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