The 27-year-old light-welterweight has boxed just three times in the two years since he won the British title, having a planned European title shot against Jon Fernandez in September cancelled due to injury, so is looking forward to returning to the ring on Saturday (25.01.25) when he takes on Walid Ouizza to contest for the European title.

He told Boxing News magazine: “This is the longest I’ve ever been out and it is frustrating. I got a good win last time out and I obviously wanted to keep building on that last year, but it didn’t work out like that.

“My last two fights were two big knockout wins and two big statements.

“That was the frustrating thing; I’d been on such a good run and I just wanted to keep that momentum up.

“But now it’s time to get the ball rolling again. It was a frustrating end to the year, but I’ll put all that behind me on Saturday night.”

Dalton thinks it “makes sense” to go for the European belt before contending for the world title.

He said:” Because of the position I’m in right now, where I’m a couple of fights away from challenging for a world title, it makes sense to go for the European.

“I’ve always said I’d love to get it and then move on and get the final one – a world title.

“And this is exactly the sort of fight I need at this point.

“Ouizza is a solid opponent and he’s got some good wins on his record.

“He’s a veteran in the ring and knows how to handle himself. But I’ve prepared well and I’m looking to put a great performance in.”