LUDLOW boxer Craig Morris has vowed to “make a stand” in his first fight since losing the Midlands Area Welterweight crown – despite not knowing who he will face.

The 25-year-old southpaw suffered his first professional defeat as Ryan Fields reclaimed the title in Stoke in February.

Next up for Morris is a return to the scene of the crime, the Fenton Manor Sports Complex, to take on an as-yet unnamed opponent as he bids to hit the comeback trail on Saturday, July 15.

Speaking ahead of the Pride of the Potteries event, Morris said: “I hope this one will put me back in the mix and on the road to a title.

“I am open to anything but firstly, I want to build up my confidence again and then we will see what comes after that.

“From being on such a high only to lose the belt has been difficult, it was a horrible feeling. When you win a title everyone is after you, everyone is your mate and then as soon as you lose no one wants to know.

“I want to prove a point in this next fight, put on a good performance and show people I am still here. Hopefully, I can bounce back with a win.

“It probably isn’t going to be for a title so there is slightly less pressure and I want to prove to myself and everyone else that I will come back stronger.

“When you win a fight and look back on it, you think you could have done a couple of things differently but don’t focus too much on it but this time I have been working on lots of different flaws.

“I am trying to change a few things up and tighten up. I want to use the defeat, learn from it and make the experience something I can gain from.

“I want to make a stand and put on a good show. It would be great to get the stoppage but as long as I do well and look good, that would make me happy.

“The stoppage would make a statement but if you go looking for it too much, that’s when you start loading up on your shots.

“I want to give myself space, pick my shots better so I will be more likely to land the bigger blows anyway. I just want to get in there now and get that defeat out of my mind.

“You can understand why boxers go through depression when they have a defeat, especially at the very top level. It must be horrible. It was heartbreaking for me but I am itching to get back in the ring.”

Tickets for the event are on sale at £30 for standard unreserved tickets or £60 for VIP ringside seats. Call 07734 118 041 to book.