SHAYNE Singleton made a winning return to the ring but was given a tough work-out by Tottenham fighter Mark McKray.

The 22-year-old from Colne made it 12 straight victories at the Bowlers Exhibition Centre in Manchester but was taken the distance by the Londoner.

“He was a real ‘in your face’ fighter and whatever I threw at him he took,” said Singleton making his ring return after a hand injury. “He was looking for that big punch all the time so I had I to be careful.

“But it was a very good workout for me and I am very happy to take my unbeaten record to 12 fights.”

Despite the lay-off, Singleton said he was in peak condition thanks to some sparring with Leeds fighter Adil Anwar, the light welterweight Prizefighter winner and English welterweight champion.

“Thankfully, I got back in the ring sooner than I had been expected after I first picked up the injury,” added Singleton who has stopped three of his 12 opponents. “I didn’t feel rusty at all. In fact, I felt in really good shape after some good sparring with Adil.”

The light welterweight contest was on the Box Nation bill but was not televised.

However, Singleton is hoping to get some ‘air time’ in his next contest on a Frank Maloney bill in Blackpool at the end of June – although the fight has yet to be confirmed.