CWMBRAN middleweight Gary Lockett's WBU world title bid goes ahead at the Newport Centre next Saturday - but he is still waiting for an opponent.

Original opponent for the vacant title, Sheffield's Ryan Rhodes, has pulled out after pinching a nerve in his back.

Lockett is now likely to face Michael Jones, a former British and Commonwealth light-middleweight champion, or an unnamed French-African.

"I'm gutted the Rhodes fight is off. I've had a number of disappointments in my career and this is another as I'm in terrific shape and fancied beating Rhodes," said Lockett.

"But at least I will still be fighting for the world title and I've just got to stay focused for Saturday."