GARY BUCKLAND will make the first defence of his British super-featherweight title against Paul Truscott at Newport Centre on Saturday November 26.

It has meant an immediate return to the gym for Hatton Promotions’ Cardiff sensation who took the title from Gary Sykes in a Fight of the Year candidate last month.

Truscott, 25, is a former Commonwealth champion and with 17 wins from 19 contests and represents a formidable test for the newly crowned champion.

But battling Buckland who has won 24 of his 26 contests is in no mood to surrender his Lonsdale belt easily.

Hatton Promotions head, Ricky Hatton said:  “Gary’s win over Sykes was a humdinger and this defence will be just as much a thriller.

“Paul is a very good operator and the only opponent to have his measure is John Simpson, but that is nothing to be ashamed of.

“He moved up to super-featherweight after his second loss to Simpson and looks a lot stronger.

“I have every confidence that Gary will go way beyond British level, bit this fight show that Hatton Promotions are not frightened of testing our fighters against the best.

“It is great to take a show to South Wales and I hope to stage even bigger events in the region with Gary headlining.”

Hatton Promotions Director of Boxing Richard Poxon is putting together a top class undercard that will delight fans and Sky Sports viewers.

Former European super-bantamweight champion Rendall Munroe, 2008 Olympian Joe Murray, Jez Wilson and Tom Doran will all feature.

Boxing starts at 6.15pm and tickets priced at £35, £55 and £75 VIP ringside. You can buy by calling 01925 755 222, Ticketmaster 0844 847 2500, Ticketline 0844 888 9991 or online www.hattonboxing.com