Boxer Alex Arthur has been promised a crack at the WBO lightweight crown next year by his promoter Frank Warren – if he wins his two remaining fights this year.

The 31-year-old – who knocked out Frenchman Mohamed Benbiou in 92 seconds in their June fight – will fight an as yet un-named opponent in Belfast on October 9 before featuring in another bout in December.

And the former WBO super-featherweight champion is more determined than ever to prove that he has what it takes to be at the top-table of world boxing.

“I'm still very ambitious,” said Arthur. “Frank says he plans to have me out in October and again in December and I'm hungry for a fresh go at a world title early next year.

“These fights are aimed at getting me a world lightweight title fight by February or March 2010.

“I must win both of these fights in impressive style to guarantee my world title shot but I’m confident I can do it.”