Elliott Matthews could script a comedy based on the last two years of his life, such has been the farcical nature of fights falling through on him.

The Watford middleweight has seen a succession of fighters pull out and bouts go unfulfilled, most recently in the form of Joe Mullender and Mick Hall.

Matthews had been due to fight Mullender for the English title, but he has since vacated and Matthews is now not expected to return to the ring until December.

Despite the disappointment, Matthews is staying positive and has been assured by manager Mo Prior that he will get his shot at a national belt.

“Over the last two years it’s been comical trying to get a title shot, but my new manager, Mo Prior, says I will definitely get a shot this year,” Matthews said.

“I’m more ready than ever, with a great team behind me and eveything is beginning to fall into place.

“I am not afraid of hard work and have given up everything so I can bring the belt back.”

Matthews’ next fight looks likely to come in the form of Grant Dennis, with the pair set to face off on December 9 at York Hall.

Dennis, who is Southern Area champion, will pose a good challenge should the fight go ahead, and boasts a record of 9-0 with all his wins by way of knockout.

Matthews though, insists a strong training regime means he is ready to defend his record of 19-0-1 and is happy to face anyone, regardless of records or reputations.

“It is great to have support from the local community and companies like Gibbs Gillespie and David Lloyd,” he said of his training.

“I’ve been happy to fight anyone anywhere as my coaches Dennis Maycock and Charles Oliver have been putting me through it.

“I am not fazed by reputations, I just want to get on with the job in hand and get in the ring as soon as I can.”