Pickering lost a controversial decision to Michael Hunter in 2005

The Newark boxer faces Barking's Marc Callaghan for the vacant belt at the Norwich Showground on 16 March.

Pickering lost his British, European and Commonwealth belts to Michael Hunter in 2005 and lost to current European king Bernard Dunne last year.

"Winning the British title is the first step back on the ladder for me to bigger, better things," said Pickering.

606 DEBATE: Can Pickering bounce back?

"People say I'm the favourite for this fight, but I won't be underestimating Callaghan.

"He gave Hunter a couple of good fights and this is his opportunity, so I will have to be at my best.

"But all my strengths will tell on the night and prove that I'm the best super bantamweight in Britain and ready for bigger fights."

Pickering, who has 30 wins from 35 fights, bounced back from the Dunne defeat by outpointing Frenchman Frederic Gosset over six rounds at Alexandra Palace in January.

Callaghan, 29, has 19 wins from 30 encounters and has fought for the British title once before, losing to Hunter in 2004.

British lightweight champion Jonathan Thaxton defends against Scott Lawton on the same bill.