Brook clinches dream world title fight in US

The 26-year-old Sheffield fighter will take on the American in Las Vegas on January 19 after promoter Eddie Hearn successfully negotiated with Alexander’s team.

Brook, who has recorded 19 knockouts in his unblemished 29-fight career, has gradually manoeuvred himself into the mandatory challenger position with a series of solid wins over the last 18 months and gets his reward when he takes on decent but unspectacular champion Alexander, 25.

“We’re finally there,” he said. “This is what I’ve dreamed of since I was nine years old – fighting for the world title.

“I’m so passionate and hungry for this world title. Nothing’s going to stop me. I can’t wait to get in that ring and get that world title.

“Fighting for the belt in America is going to make it a lot more special. I could have had it my own way, in Sheffield, for example, but, to be honest, I don’t think he would have come over here.

“So I’m going to go over there, to his country, and capture a world title. Imagine that, when I’m stood in that ring, being crowned world champion after beating him in his own backyard.”