But Hackney man is fully focused on John McDermott

CLAPTON power-puncher Larry Olubamiwo aims to be British heavyweight champion by the end of the year, but is adamant he won’t underestimate next opponent John McDermott.

The Hackney man takes on his Essex rival on Saturday, February 19 at York Hall live on SkySports as he defends his Southern Area heavyweight title.

McDermott is a 32-fight veteran and has twice fought Danny Williams as well as emerging talent Tyson Fury.

“He brings a lot of experience into the ring and is a good fight at this stage of my career,” Olubamiwo said.

“He has fought the best in Britain and was unlucky to lose his first bout against Fury. He’s a durable fighter who I don’t believe has many weaknesses.

“Of course I want to be British and Commonwealth champion by the end of the year but to look past McDermott would be arrogant. I must take each fight as it comes.”

With Fury the number one challenger to Dereck Chisora’s British crown and the champion currently preparing for IBF and WBO World champion Wladimir Klitschko on 30 April Olubamiwo may have to be patient.

“Everything is a bit up in the air at the moment with Derek fighting for a World title,” Olubamiwo said.

“Derek won the British title and it is up to him whether he vacates it or not he won it fair and square, although I know the board want to see the title fought for on a regular basis. Tyson Fury is the number one guy at the moment so I may have to wait.

“A European title shot is a possibility this year, but I’ll leave that up to (promoter) Frank Warren to sort it out and see if the opportunity arises.

“I know I will be busy over the next few months so we have to wait and see.”