He may called ‘The Future’ but James Fryers is loving the present.

The Belfast super featherweight has his British title destiny in his own hands and is determined not to let domestic glory slip from his grasp.

One of a number of ‘Mac Men’, Fryers will face Maxi Hughes in a British title final eliminator at the Europa Hotel on February 6 and victory will make him mandatory for current champion Liam Walsh.

Indeed, if Ryan Walsh defeats Darren Traynor and retains the featherweight Lonsdale belt on January 22 – and Fryers beats Hughes two weeks later – ‘The Future’ and MHD stable mate James Tennyson will be on course for Spring title shots against brothers at neighbouring weights.

Fryers, 23, claims a British title shot in 2016 was always the aim, but he was delighted that he has been given a clear path toward buckling the strap around his waist before the turn of the year. In fact he claims promoter Mark Dunlop gave him the perfect Christmas present.

“Mark said to me he wants to try and get me an eliminator in 2016 so it was on my mind but I never expected it to be this quick,” Fryers told Irish-boxing.com.

“When I heard news of it I thought Christmas had come early. I am looking to get my hands on the British title so this is a stepping stone to where I want to be.”

The British title isn’t the limit to Fryers ambitions, but it is all he is focused on now.

“My goal has been to win the British title. If I could get my hands on that it would open a lot of possibilities and opportunities. I haven’t thought of anything else but that British title but I know if I win it the ball is in my court.

“I feel in ready to fight amongst the top domestic, I’m confident enough to fight at any top level domestically and internationally. I have faith in my ability and my team to bring the best out in me and achieve my potential.”

Fryers, who was always respected as a amateur operator, has caught the eye as a pro this year. The intelligent Belfast operator started the year with a bang by stopping dangerous power puncher Mark Morris before going on to register four more wins as he moved up the rankings.

Reflecting on the past 12 months he added,

“Looking back on 2015 I had a successful year. Was kept busy with also a trip to Estonia so I’m delighted how the year went.”