Jon Thaxton has rejected a deal with boxing kingmaker Frank Warren to try to chase his British lightweight title dream.

Jon Thaxton has rejected a deal with boxing kingmaker Frank Warren to try to chase his British lightweight title dream.

The Norwich fighter lost on points to superstar Ricky Hatton at Wembley nearly six years ago - but Thaxton is desperate for another domestic shot.

“I was offered a lucrative deal,” confirmed Thaxton, attending the press conference to launch next month's 'young guns' show at Norwich's Mercy nightclub.

“Unfortunately, it meant giving up on fighting for the British, which is a title that has eluded me. I've still got points to prove - both to me and a few other people.

“While I'm in the game I will give it 100pc. It might be an old fashioned route these days, but I want the British, Commonwealth and hopefully another shot at a world title.”

Thaxton will be an envious spectator ringside when hometown prospect Sam Sexton headlines the Sunday, September 24 bill featuring Jackson Williams, Danny McIntosh and Lowestoft new boy Paul Davis.

“It's a great venue for these young lads,” he said. “I remember my first fight was in Stoke and for the next 12 or 13 I was on the road - fighting in my opponent's back yard. I took fights at eight hours notice. There was never any favours and I didn't want any. These boys are lucky to have an opportunity to gain that experience at home.”

Williams returns to the ring after his high profile bout with Amir Khan in February.

“It was good to have a break and get the hunger back,” he said. “There was a lot of hype around that fight. Everyone knows he is destined for the top but it was still a loss for me and I'm looking to bounce back.”

Hard-hitting McIntosh is out to impress after a 10-month injury break while the highly-rated Davis looks to build on a promising amateur career.

“I had some problems with my elbow and hand but they are behind me now,” said McIntosh.

Davis added: “I feel ready to take that step up now. The pro game should suit my style.”

Thaxton, meanwhile, is resigned to a waiting game in his British quest after a painful points win over teak-tough Argentinian Jorge Daniel Miranda back in May.

“I cracked a rib two weeks before that fight,” he said. “When I told my wife she insisted there was no way I could pull out, but I'm an old campaigner so I just tried to avoid getting hit.

“I'll fight whenever and wherever. It is a little frustrating at the moment but I'm number one challenger for the British and hopefully that will be my next fight later in the year.

“There's a lot of younger, fresher guys about but you can't buy wisdom. I've got a few fights left in me so I'm not thinking about retirement - I'll retire on my back.”

Tickets for the Mercy show on Sunday, September 24, start from £15, with details on opponents announced soon.