URSU TARGETS WORLD TITLE SHOT WITHIN NEXT YEAR

Constantin Ursu, the unbeaten British and Commonwealth welterweight champion, says he wants a world title fight within the next 12 months. The Moldova-born boxer, based in Plymouth since he was 18, retained both belts in August with an eighth-round technical knockout of Ben Vaughan. He said he has been offered two International Boxing Organisation world title fights against Jack Rafferty, but that those involved had turned the offer down. "I want to be world champion next year," Ursu said, adding he would be ready "if they change their mind". He has won all 16 of his professional bouts.

Ursu won his Lonsdale belt in March with a points victory over Owen Cooper. He said he wants to defend the British title twice more so he can keep the belt permanently. No opponent has yet been named for his next defence. Reflecting on the Vaughan fight, Ursu said he was dissatisfied with his performance, saying he showed only "20% to 30%" of his ability. "I feel I didn't get my dopamine for my last fight," he said, adding he did not do what he "needed to" that night.

Ursu said his next opponent should expect an improved display, given his frustration with the Vaughan fight. "So good luck to another opponent because I will give everything for the next fight," he said. He rated the August win as "not even close to 50%, 60%" of what he is capable of. A world title fight against Rafferty remains dependent on sanctioning bodies agreeing to the bout, which Ursu said has not yet happened. He continues to hold both the British and Commonwealth welterweight titles unbeaten.