CHAMP MAC IS FEELING LUCKY! Body Snatcher's all set for title defence.

Byline: IAN JOHNSON 

DARREN "The Body Snatcher" Mc-Dermott admits he wasn't too fussed when he won the English middleweight title.

Now, as he prepares to defend it, he is absolutely delighted and feeling very lucky!

The importance of being a champion has rejuvenated a career which was looking pretty sad and soggy.

There is a spring back in Macca's step and a bright glint in the eyes not seen for a while.

I caught up with him on his home patch at The Venue in Dudley last week and there was no doubting his renewed vigour.

McDermott will be defending the English belt at Stoke on Friday, November 13. He roared with laughter: "Unlucky? Don't you believe it. I have had all the bad luck going so far, so it will be somebody else's turn.

"But you can ask my opponent Danny Butler from Bristol if you like. I reckon he will be lucky to get beyond five rounds.

"Seriously though, I don't go in for that kind of pre-fight hype. I have too much respect for everyone who climbs into the ring.

"It's a tough place to be even at the best of times... and we all need a bit of luck.

''I certainly didn't have it when I challenged Wayne Elcock for the British title inWolverhampton.

''I really thought that thatwas going to bemy night.

"I was stopped on a cut eye decision after an accidental clash of heads in the second round.

Bitter blow "What a bitter blow to take. I accept that not much of the fight had taken place but even so I just felt great and that I would go on and become the new champion.

"Had there been any real justice the powers that be should have ordered a rematch.

''It didn't happen and I was left deflated, disappointed and dejected. But I knew that I had to keep going. Iwasn't going to lie down and let it beatme.

"I was matched against Steve Bendall for the English title and I beat him on points 97-94 but I admit it wasn't a very convincing performance.

''I then kept warmed up against Jamie Ambler at Wolverhampton and won every round, but I know I should have done better.

"Then followed the Darren Barker disaster for the Commonwealth title. I thought Iwas in top condition physically and mentally, but clearly I wasn't.

''He stopped me in the fourth round although I was up and well in control and ready to carry on. The ref, unluckily, saw it differently.

"Now there is nothing I would like more than another crack at the British title and I am determined to earn the right.

"I am no different to the Darren Mc-Dermott who challenged Wayne Elcock - a bit more streetwise maybe - so why shouldn't the Board of Control give me another crack? "The defence of the English title is now so much more important. It is my route to where I want to be and where I think I should be," he added.

Butler is ten years younger but they have similar records. The challenger has 18 wins with three KOs and McDermott has 16 wins and nine KOs.

So there is not a lot to chose in experience but McDermott could start slight favourite because of his knock-out record.

Butler has fast hands but is not noted for his power punching.That should give McDermott even more confidence and needing less luck!

Incidentally the Stoke bill is headed by Matthew Hatton, Ricky's brother, who challenges Australian Lovemore N'dou for the IBO world welterweight title.

Despite rumours to the contrary, the fight is ON.

CAPTION(S):

CONFIDENT: English Middleweight champion Darren McDermott