DUDLEY'S very own Darren McDermott ruled the ring when boxing returned to Dudley Concert Hall.

'Macca' did battle with experienced Yorkshireman Darren Rhodes, and his victory is now set to catapult the unbeaten middleweight up the rankings and into the national spotlight.

The 28-year-old Priory gas fitter, who topped the bill - cheered on by a huge home backing, could now be in line for a West Midlands showdown with Wayne Elcock or a possible crack at the British title against Howard Eastman later in the year.

The PJ Promotions event on Thursday February 15 also saw former Stourbridge squaddie Sam Horton beat Middlesborough's Dave Pearson.