Wayne McCullough proved a real knockout during his successful return to the ring.

He stopped his opponent Alvin Brown after two minutes and 43 seconds of the second round at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas.

McCullough immediately stressed that he aims to make a bid for the World title with the possibility of the fight going ahead in Dublin.

He also took a dig at the British Boxing Board of Control who are still refusing to give him a license to box in his native Belfast.

McCullough said that he would dearly love to set up a big fight in the Odyssey Arena.

Although obviously a little ring-rusty after his 27-month lay-off, McCullough made short work of his Kansas-based opponent.

Belfast's ''Pocket Rocket'' hurt Brown in the first round after stringing together some impressive combinations.

But the American still came out strong in the second and stung the Belfast man with two big right-hand punches.

McCullough, cheered on a by a massive support, responded in the best possible fashion.

A mighty left hook putting Brown on the canvas with 50 seconds of the second round remaining.

Not long after, McCullough's relentless punching led to Brown being counted out.

"It felt good to be back,'' said McCullough.

''Before the bell I banged myself twice on the head to let myself know reality was about to check in.

"I want to be in the ring every six weeks and my promoter Mat Tinley is looking at the possibility of staging the fight in Dublin.

''Of course, I want to fight in Belfast, but the British Board won't let me.

''I'm hoping, though, that they will look at tonight's performance and change their mind.

''I'm supposed to be dead, but I'm still standing here."

McCullough's promoter Mat Tinley of Amercia Presents, intends to continue the battle with the British Board.

"I don't want to have to go down the legal route but if I have to, I will.

''I still want to try and persuade the stewards of the board and after tonight's fight, I think I can.

''I am confident Wayne McCullough will fight in Belfast again.''

After an absence of 27 months McCullough's return to boxing was both smooth and highly impressive.

If last night's performance is anything to go by Northern Ireland could have another World Champion soon.