KIDDERMINSTER martial arts star James Winsper is aiming to take another step towards a national title after lining up his next fight.

The 26-year-old will take on Carl Mallinson in Weston-Super-Mare in a full contact kick-boxing bout on Saturday, February 28.

It will be his next fight since he stopped Ateeq Rehman inside two rounds at Kidderminster Town Hall.

Victory over Mallinson will mean he is in line for title shots in both karate and kickboxing.

Trainer and brother Matt Winsper is hoping to arrange a title fight in the town, if James beats Mallinson.

He said: “James is one of the country’s best fighters and Kidderminster should be proud of him.

"He completely sold out the Town Hall in December, and I’d like to get an even bigger crowd for a title fight in the summer for him.”

The fighter will drop down a weight division to 82 kilograms for the three round clash.

Winsper said: "I’m around 84 or 85kgs at the moment, so I’ve not got too much more to lose and I still have a few weeks left, so I feel good.

"I’ll be a lot quicker and sharper at this weight, and as you know, speed kills, so I’m looking to score another knockout."

Anyone interested in information about karate or kickboxing classes for adults and children can call Winspers gym on 01562 865195.