Les Lock 'N' Load Sherrington and England's John 'The Gorilla' Ryder will square off for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight title in London on January 31.

Ryder has an imposing record of 19 wins from 20 fights, eleven by knock out. His sole loss a unanimous points loss to fellow Englishman and the undefeated Billy Joe Saunders. In that bout the score cards were 115-113.115-113 and 115-114 in Saunders favour.

Les Sherrington (35W-19KO-7L) has won 8 of his past 9 bouts - his only loss coming at the hands of former World Champion Sam Soliman.

Along the way he's won 4 regional titles with major bodies the IBF,WBO,WBC and WBA. Currently Sherrington is the WBA Oceania Middle Weight Champion.

A title he picked up with an impressive 12 round shut out against Brazil's Samir Santos Barbosa in Homehill last month.

"I'm very excited about this fight with John Ryder at the O2 arena in London," Les Sherrington said.

"I know how fanatical the English fans are, I've been told ticket sales are going through the roof so it's going to be an amazing atmosphere to fight in.

"I can't wait to hear a packed out O2 Arena in London fall silent when I start to dominate the home town hero.

"John Ryder is a very good young fighter and has some good wins on his record.

"That being said I firmly believe I am a better fighter than him and I plan on proving that fight night.

"I would like to thank the promoter of this bout Eddie Hearn and my trainer/manager Brendon Smith for putting this match together.

"Bring on January 31st," Sherrington said.

Brendon Smith added.

"This is a great fight and well deserving of the 5 star rating it's received on Boxrec.

" I would like to thank Eddie Hearn, he's a thorough gentleman and great to deal with.

"I have no doubt this won't be the last title bout put together by Eddie Hearn and Smithy's Promotions.

"This is the type of fight Les has been building towards for 12 months, a win here and a World title shot is well within his grasp.

"However we have a big task at hand, the nick name 'The Gorilla' is fitting for John Ryder but i firmly believe Les can tame the Gorilla.

"We're not travelling over there to lose, we want to win and believe we will win.

"Les is training extremely hard for this bout and will be ready for January 31.

"It's Australia vs England once again - 'Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!" Smith said.