 Lockett could be fighting for a world title in six months' time |
Cwmbran middleweight Gary Lockett has taken a step closer to fighting for a genuine world title. The 30-year-old has moved up to number two challenger in the WBO rankings for September - his highest career ranking.
WBO and WBC champion Jermain Taylor defends his titles against Kelly Pavlik on September 29 in New Jersey.
This will be Taylor's last fight at middleweight, so if the American wins then Lockett will be in line to challenge for the vacant title.
And if challenger Pavlik takes the title, his first defence could be against Lockett.
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A Pavlik win could also see the WBO arranging an elimination bout for the title, which would certainly involve Lockett.
The Welshman holds the WBU's middleweight title, but by his own admission that belt is a "fringe title".
He made his second defence in a three-round stoppage over Lee Blundell at the Millennium Stadium in April.
It was Lockett's first fight since joining Enzo Calzaghe's gym, which currently boasts three world champions in Joe Calzaghe [WBO super middleweight], Enzo Maccarinelli [WBO cruiserweight] and Gavin Rees [WBA light welterweight].
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