Pat McCormack names ideal next opponent ahead of world title eliminator

The 30-year-old Brit will top the bill in his hometown of Sunderland, and the fight has now been upgraded to a WBA world title eliminator.

But McCormack has his sights set on picking up other belts first, and revealed at Thursday's press conference that he is targeting a fight with domestic rival Conah Walker for the British title next.

"The British title is what I want next or European or Commonwealth," McCormack said. "The British against Conah Walker is the fight that everyone seems to be talking about so I’m happy to have it next.

"But I need to get through Parra first. I’ve got to keep winning, and then I’m just about there."

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Walker has won 16 of his 20 fights after turning professional in 2018 under the guidance of former world champion Ricky Hatton.DAZN

He claimed the British and Commonwealth welterweight titles by knocking out Harry Scarff in January, but subsequently vacated the latter belt.

Walker made a successful defence of his British strap last time out, stopping Liam Taylor in the seventh round.

McCormack, who has only had seven professional fights, wants to clean up domestically before moving onto world honours but has a difficult challenge ahead of him this weekend.

He must overcome the durable Parra, and is fully aware of the upsets that Mexican fighters have pulled off when fighting on British soil in recent years.

McCormack is confident of avoiding his own slip-up, though, and has backed himself to put on a show in front of his home fans.

"He’s a very good fighter, a tough Mexican, but I believe I’ve got the skills to beat him," McCormack continued. "All that matters is winning and looking good.

"My prediction? Pat McCormack win. And I’ll look good doing it.”

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