Shayne makes WBC’s elite!

It’s an outstanding claim for 24-year-old former Sandygate ABC boxer Singleton who climbed to number 32 on the planet in the World Boxing Council’s eyes after dispatching Laszlo Fazekas for the International Silver belt back in April.

Argentina’s Luis Carlos Abregu, who boasts 29 knockouts from 36 contests, is second in that list, fellow native Marcos Maidana, who is set for a rematch with Floyd Mayweather Jr in September, is third while Khan’s recent conquest Luis Collazo is 18th.

“It’s amazing and I was over the moon when I looked,” said Singleton. “I’m more than happy to be ranked 32nd in the world in the WBC and fourth among the British fighters. It’s an honour to be associated with names like that.

“The British fighters are right up there, at the top of their game, but who says I can’t join them within 12 to 18 months? Anything can happen. It’s great to be mentioned on that list, on the same page as those fighters.

“It’s incredible and there’s some great names from around the world. It’s getting very serious now so I’m determined to keep progressing and proving myself. I want to pit myself against the best so I can see where I’m at.”

Singleton will celebrate his honorary inclusion among the world’s elite fighters with an outing at King George’s Hall in Blackburn on Saturday, September 6th, where the International Masters Gold title is up for grabs. An opponent is yet to be confirmed for Singleton - who benefited from a points decision against Santos Medrano for the International Masters light welterweight strap at the Reebok Stadium in October 2012.

Ahead of his fourth title shot, the Welterweight boxer said: “It will be my first 12 round fight which is great. This will prepare me for what’s to come because it’s another step up. I’ve felt as though I could’ve gone on in my previous 10 round fights so this will be good experience.

“I think my body and stamina suits the higher rounds because that’s when I come strong and step it up. I just want to put myself in to a position where I’m being sounded out for a shot at the Commonwealth or British title.”

Meanwhile, Gavin’s rise in the 147lb division could potentially pave a roadway of opportunity for Singleton. The British and Commonwealth supremo, who overcame Sacky Shikukutu in March despite going down in the second round, will challenge Italian foe Leonard Bundu for his EBU (European) crown at Wolverhampton’s Civic Hall next month.

“Bradley Skeete is a potential match-up for me,” Singleton said. “There’s been talk of it in the past so that’s a possible contest when the new season arrives. That would be for the Commonwealth belt.

“With Frankie Gavin going for a European title it leaves the Commonwealth vacant. He won’t relinquish the British as well. I do want that British title though and that’s the ambition for the new season.”