ANTHONY UPTON has been handed a second opportunity to win the English super-lightweight title.

The 24-year-old stylist will square off with Walsall’s Luke Paddock on Hatton Promotions’ and Black Country Boxing’s ‘Danger Zone’ event at The Chase Leisure Centre, Cannock on July 24.

It’s an opportunity that comes just seven months after Upton gallantly contested the same crown against Joe Hughes.

Things did not go his way that evening, but promoter and trainer Ricky Hatton believes the experience stood him in good stead for another tilt.

“Anto proved to everyone that he’s a fighter who belongs in championship class and I believe he’ll grab that title with both hands this time around,” The Hitman said.

“Some fighters let their head drop after their first loss. Anto didn’t. He begged me to get him another opportunity and I’m very proud of the work that my team has put in to make it happen for him.

“Paddock’s obviously no push over and has experience in title fights himself so I know we have to get Anto firing on all cylinders in training. Believe me, there’ll be more stone left unturned in getting him ready for this chance.”

If victorious next month, Upton will be required to meet the aforementioned Hughes in rematch of their December encounter. Hughes has been given the mandatory position for the crown due to him being forced to relinquish in the aftermath of his WBO Intercontinental title defeat to Jack Catterall.

There’s a double celebration in the Upton household this week after it was announced that Anthony’s older brother, Sonny, will face Chadwell Heath’s Ben Hall for the vacant English title at super-welterweight on a Frank Warren promotion in September.