JOE Hughes says that he cannot afford to look past Anthony Upton after his English super-lightweight title defence also became an eliminator for Tyrone Nurse’s British crown.

Yorkshire stylist Nurse became the new Lonsdale belt holder on Saturday night after an enthralling battle against Welshman Chris Jenkins.

While Hughes is hoping to get a shot at the British title next year, he knows he must deal with the unbeaten Ricky Hatton-trained Upton first of all.

“It is a nice little touch that it is also a British title eliminator – it gives the fight a little bit more spice,” said the 25-year-old. “It is great that I’m defending my English title and this could put me in a strong position to become mandatory for the British.

“This is an eliminator, not a final one, so Tyrone could have a voluntary first, I may not get the chance for a year, but this is something I want.”

Hughes will soon begin to taper down his training for his December 5 defence at Walsall Town Hall.

The Malmesbury fighter was in action last month where he claimed a first round stoppage over Tomas Bartunek in Swindon.

“I was working towards defending my title against Glenn Foot but the board didn’t accept it,” he said.

“Then I got that fight with Tomas Bartunek and it was what it was.

“I was hoping to get out again in December and I’m glad I’ve got something worthwhile.

“He is trained by Ricky Hatton so that gives it a bit of extra publicity – but I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“From what I’ve seen of him, he is quite elusive and switches a lot. He also has quite a bit of support.

“I’m going in as the away fighter so fingers crossed I can get a bit of support there.”

Tickets for Hughes’ fight are price £60 ringside and £30 standard and are available from Hughes via his Facebook page Joe Hughes Boxing Limited or through Twitter @joehughesboxing.