Witter lost his last world title challenge in 2000

The 32-year-old Bradford boxer will fight the American on Saturday 15 September after a long wait for a second shot at a world title.

"I always thought my chance would come but it has been immensely frustrating," said Witter.

"I have done the hard graft and now I am ready for the rewards."

Witter, who has 33 wins from 36 fights, lost on points to Zab Judah in his previous world title shot in Glasgow in 2000 and has gone on to record 15 consecutive inside-the-distance wins.

He was installed as the WBC's number one contender last summer but a title shot has had to wait as he failed to find an opponent.

And the situation was complicated further when champion Floyd Mayweather vacated the title.

The fight will always be there for Ricky if he wants it Junior Witter

"I have found it very hard to get motivated for fights in the meantime," Witter added.

"I have always known it is my destiny to be recognised as the true world champion and when that happens I will be secure in the knowledge that I did it the proper way."

Corley, 31, has mixed in top-class company and won 31 of 36 professional encounters.

He took Mayweather, arguably the world's best pound-for-pound fighter, the distance when they met in 2004 and gave current WBO champion Miguel Cotto a scare last year.

He won the WBO title in 2001 and made two defences before dropping a split decision against Judah in 2003.

"I respect Corley and I know he is the kind of fighter who carries plenty of power," said Witter.

"But there will only be one winner on the night."

FIVE LIVE VIEW If Witter is anywhere near as good as he says he is he should beat Corley Stef Five Live: Have your say

Promoter Mick Hennessy said: "This is the kind of fight I am in the sport for. They don't come any bigger than the WBC.

"I am very proud to be bringing their title to the UK and I know Junior is very proud to be contesting it on home soil.

"Fair play to Junior. If any fighter deserves an opportunity like this, it's him. He has done everything he can to get this fight."

And Witter says a British super-fight against former light welterweight king Ricky Hatton could take place if he beats Corley.

"The fight will always be there for Ricky if he wants it," said Witter. "Just like it was always there for him in the past and he didn't seem to want it then."