James Hare has voiced his concern for the future of British boxing.

The domestic sport is taking a long hard look in the mirror in the wake of TV's decision to reduce their coverage.

The BBC are set to pull the plug altogether on the pros while Sky have shunted their traditional Saturday Fight Nights to Fridays in favour of showing more Premiership football.

It paints a gloomy picture for the noble art. And as one of the top performers in the country, Hare admits he is growing anxious.

The Roberttown rocket said: "Without wanting to sound too pessimistic, boxing isn't buried yet but I fear that it's dying on its feet.

"I do love the sport but I'm not sure if there is a great future for people coming in it, certainly not compared with ten years ago.

"You try to block out all the problems but it isn't good. It does come down to money.

"The big names like Hatton, Harrison and Calzaghe should be made for life when they retire or will at least be very comfortable. But that's not the case for everyone.

"Mark Hobson has got a career outside but then you look at somebody like Dale Robinson. Fighters like him need the proper time to prepare and get the weight right as well as train but you are having to go out to work as well.

"I don't think boxing will ever disappear for good. I just think there has been a downward spiral and you need something or somebody like another Naz to turn it round."

The brightest spot on the horizon is Hare's challenge for David Barnes's British welterweight belt in Halifax on November 12. The clash at the Northbridge Sports Centre is billed as a meeting of one of the rising prospects against one of the smoothest operators.

Hare said: "The fight sells itself. The anticipation is there, although there are no guarantees.

"Barnes is a blossoming, unbeaten fighter and fair play to him for stepping up to the plate. He is a southpaw fighter who carries a bit of a dig and wants to see if he can deliver. But it's my job to try to box him my way. I've come back with two wins since losing to Cosme Rivera and now it's up to me again to prove that I'm still one of the best fighters in Britain."

The pick of the undercard sees Barnsley's Rob Burton hoping to win back the Central Area welterweight belt in a re-match with Matthew Hatton.

Huddersfield welterweight Tyrone McInerny and unbeaten Sheffield cruiserweight Simon Francis have also been included after Tuesday's show at Barnsley was cancelled because of illness.

Tickets priced £30, £40 and £60 are available from Sports Network on 01992 550888.