Gavin Rees is on course for another world title shot after he stopped Derry Mathews in Sheffield.  The Welshman overcame a stuttering start to stop the brave Mathews in the ninth round after an enthralling contest.

And Rees, who added the British belt to his European title, is now set to return to the world stage - with the 32-year-old having previously held the WBA light-welterweight strap.

Promoter Eddie Hearn told Sky Sports: "We are hoping for news in the next couple of weeks. It is time now for Gavin to try and become a two-time world champion. What a great performance.

"Gavin has done his time now. He's won his belts, he has defended his European title so it is time to move on and we hope to deliver a world title shot in time for the new season."

Rees believes that after winning 37 of his 39 fights that he has the tools and the power to go all the way.

"I think I am one of the hardest-hitting lightweights in Britain and can definitely catch anyone in the world and knock them out," he said. "You have seen since I have dropped to lightweight I have stopped most of the boys I have fought so you can see the power is there. Hopefully they can now sort out a world title fight."

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