Boxing: Rowland lined up for world title bid

Rowland's opponent has yet to be announced, although Sports Network spokesman Richard Maynard said a top world-ranked opponent is in the process of being lined up.

This is the second time Rowland, from Rettendon, has been in line for world title glory.

His previous opportunity, which was all set for June last year, was a non-starter after he ruptured a cartilage in his right knee within days of his scheduled contest against American champion Zab Judah at Hampden Park, Glasgow.

Lonsdale Belt holder Rowland has given up his British title to step up for this latest challenge which will be on the undercard of the Ricky Hatton/Jon Thaxton clash for the vacant British title.

A victory for Rowland on the 21st could see him fight the winner of the Hatton/Thaxton contest at some point in the future, a mouth-watering prospect indeed.

In fact, Rowland's last contest was back in November when he successfully defended his British title, earning a fifth round victory at York Hall, Bethnal Green - against Thaxton.

That said, the experience of last year will ensure Rowland will only be taking one step at a time.

Rowland, who has been beaten just once in 25 contests, resumed training just four weeks ago following surgery on his knee at Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford. He is being trained by Jimmy Tibbs at the Lennox Lewis Centre.

To date, big-hitter Rowland has knocked out 17 of his 25 opponents, so he has good reason to be confident of success against whoever he may be called upon to face at Wembley.

Also on the bill at Wembley will be British heavyweight champion Mike Holden, from Manchester, against Commonwealth champion Danny Williams, from Brixton.

For tickets, costing £25, £50 and £75, telephone Wembley Conference Centre on 0208 902 8833.

Jason Rowland: Ready for world title challenge.

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