McCullough had hoped to face the WBO super-bantanweight champion Joan Guzman in February.

But it now appears that Guzman's manager would prefer his charge to fight a couple of title defences before facing McCullough - in America.

It is believed that the Guzman camp would like their man to fight former WBO champion Agapito Sanchez in the Dominican Republic.

McCullough's wife and manager Cheryl said that she was having doubts that the proposed showdown in February may not now take place.

''He wants to make a couple of defences before fighting Wayne.

''He also said he will not fight him in Belfast. He would rather have the fight in America.''

Frank Warren, who promotes both boxers, had planned for a showdown at Belfast's Odyssey Arena.

He will continue to try and tempt Guzman to Belfast, but it now appears that McCullough will have to take a circuitous route for a chance to win another world title.

The ''Pocket Rocket'' won't mind waiting around for the chance. In the meantime he will happily take another 10-rounder to sharpen up further.

''Money talks in boxing so maybe the Guzman fight can still be made,'' said Cheryl McCullough.

''But Wayne is in no hurry to fight him even though it would be nice to fight for a Championship right away.''