NEWPORT’S Gary Buckland is aiming to kick-start his career again by winning Prizefighter for a second time, writes Andrew Penman.

The St Joseph’s fighter will be amongst the favourites to win the lightweight version of the three-round tournament at London’s York Hall on December 6.

Buckland won the super-featherweight tournament as a big underdog in November 2010 by beating both Gary Sykes and Derry Matthews.

And if he can come out on top this time round he would become the first fighter to win Prizefighter trophies at different weights.

It would also be a big boost to his hopes of returning to top-level title fights having lost three of his last four bouts.

“I’ve done it before and it would be a great achievement to win it at super-featherweight and lightweight,” said Buckland.

“Last time it was the biggest thing in my career at that point and I want it to do the same again.

“I want to win this and then win the British super-featherweight title back so this is a must-win for me, he added.

“I put pressure on myself with every fight but I need to win this tournament.”

Also on the bill at Bethnal Green, live on Sky Sports, is an eliminator for the British super-feather title between Martin J. Ward and Maxi Hughes so Buckland will be in the right place at the right time to size up the competition.

“If I win Prizefighter I should be back in the title hunt again and win back what is mine,” he said of the belt he lost to Stephen Smith in August 2013.

“One more notch and I get to keep the belt so that is my main aim.”

Not that he’s taking success on December 6 for granted.

“I might be the favourite but you can never tell what will happen with Prizefighter,” said the 28-year-old.

“There have been lots of shocks – like when I won it last time – so you can’t go into it being bigheaded and expecting to win.

“I am a good three-round fighter but anything can happen in three rounds.”

Tickets for Prizefighter are available from Buckland on 07826175746 or manager Brian Powell on 07821004684.