STEVEN Bell will have to travel to a Scottish bearpit to land his dream of a British title fight next month.

The 33-year-old former England amateur team captain from Ashton-under-Lyne has been working towards a shot at a Lonsdale belt ever since he turned pro five years ago.

And, while his clash with featherweight champ Paul Appleby - one of the rising stars of British boxing - has yet to be confirmed for Glasgow on November 14, Bell remains hopeful of getting his chance. "I was told a few weeks back that there was a good chance of a clash with Appleby, and that is what I am training for," said Bell, who has successfully moved down from super-feather to pursue his title dream.

"This is the title I have wanted since I turned pro, and I jumped at the chance of it. The kid is a good fighter, is young and it's his first defence of the title, and I have to be grateful to him for giving me an opportunity.

"I would have had to wait until next year to work myself into a mandatory position."

Appleby was named Young Boxer of the Year after extending his record to 12-0 and taking the British title in June with a close points verdict over John Simpson - who himself ripped the belt from Manchester's Andy Morris last year.

"It will be a cracking fight. Paul's style is come-forward and aggressive, but I like to get drawn into a fight," added Bell.

"My boxing is my best asset but I can fight when necessary. If I'm on top of my game, my style and skill can beat him." Tweet