The 23-year-old from Sherfield English, near Romsey, will take on London-based Ugandan John Mackay at the Derby Storm Arena knowing that another win will almost certainly earn him a shot at the British title.

Mackay, who has always fought at the superbantam level, was a late replacement this week for scheduled opponent Pavel Potipko of Belarus, who withdrew on Wednesday. Mackay has a record of four wins in his seven professional fights, one of them by a knockout.

A win against the Ugandan could take the Hampshire fighter to a date with champion Alex Arthur for the British featherweight crown.

Castle, a former ABA champion, has gained four knockouts and three points wins in his seven contests since turning professional.

He's been finishing off his preparations this week at his home club, the City of Salisbury ABC under the direction of trainer Fred Phillips..

McGuigan is admirer

Club stalwart Phil Rooney has followed Henry's progress since the boxer first appeared on the scene as a youngster.

He's convinced that Castle will one day stand comparison with his old friend from Belfast, the great former world champion, Barry McGuigan.

Says Phil: "I've mentioned Barry McGuigan in the same breath as Henry and why not?

"Barry was a featherweight too and was a non-stop, great boxer. He feared nobody and had that wicked body punching skill.

"Henry also has these skills, as seen in his seven wins so far. Like McGuigan, his grand army of fans will be cheering their lungs out when he gets in the ring tomorrow."

Rooney makes no apologies for comparing the two fighters.

"There will be many who think I may have gone over the top in comparing Henry to Barry," he says.

"Well I don't think so; after all, we are all entitled to our opinions and that's mine. Remember, quite a few of the TV boxing pundits, including McGuigan, have already said that Henry is one to watch in the future.

"I'm sure he'll beat Potipko, and I think that after eight bouts he is certainly title fight material.

"The featherweight division is the busiest and best in boxing today. Henry has played his part in it, so I say give him his due reward of a title chance. He won't waste it!"