Bradford's Bobby Vanzie is being lined up for a world title challenge later this year.

His managers Tommy Gilmour and Jack Doughty opened talks for him to take on IBO lightweight champion Michael Ayers just hours after his successful British and Commonwealth title defences against Stephen Smith on Monday night.

Ayers, 35, British No. 2, is in the twilight of his career and Vanzie will fancy his chances of extending his 18-fight unbeaten run.

"My managers have been talking to Ayers' boss Barry Hearn and they are hopeful of a deal," said Vanzie.

"Obviously it will be a great chance for me and a big, big fight but my aim is to go on and win one of the more widely recognised world titles such as the WBC or WBA crown."

No venue has been discussed but it is likely to be in London where Ayers is a big box office draw, although Vanzie would love it to be staged nearer home.

Vanzie had indicated before the Smith fight that he would prefer to challenge Julien Lorcy for the European crown but British No.1 Billy Schwer appears favourite to fight the Frenchman.

Vanzie's quest for a world title is likely to result in him relinquishing his British title now that he has won a Lonsdale Belt.

"I would be forced to make mandatory defences and my likely challengers would be men like Anthony Maynard who lost to Smith or Wayne Rigby and Alan Temple who I have already beaten. I need to go forward not back," he said.

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