BRETT McDermott could soon be sharing a ring with world heavyweight title contender Tyson Fury after impressing during a sparring session against one of the country’s top prospects.

The former Barrow Raiders player is pursuing a third professional sporting career in the world of boxing, having successfully transitioned into mixed martial arts after retiring from rugby league.

Since swapping the cage for the ring, McDermott has been training with ex-professional Ryan Watson at his gym in Marton and recently the pair headed to Manchester to spar with top prospect Nathan Gorman.

Watson’s connection with Mike Jackson, trainer of undefeated heavyweight Gorman, and Ricky Hatton through his brother Matthew, helped to set up the session – and McDermott may now get the opportunity to spar with Fury ahead of his showdown with WBC World Champion Deontay Wilder.

“He did four rounds with Nathan and he did all right,” said Watson. “It was a different level to what Brett is used to but he held his own and we’re going to go back down in the near future for more sparring.

“They even said there’s the possibility of getting Brett sparring with Tyson Fury, because he trains at the same gym.

“The only reason Brett couldn’t spar Tyson a few weeks ago was because Tyson needed southpaws for his last fight, but they said next time he’ll have the opportunity to spar him and it will be really good experience for him.”

McDermott made his boxing debut back in April, headlining Watson’s charity show at Ulverston’s Coronation Hall and defeating wily journeyman Jody Meikle on points after four rounds.

The former BAMMA heavyweight champion now needs to finalise some paperwork before he can start planning his professional bow.

Jackson and Gorman were both complimentary about how well McDermott has coped with the switch from one combat discipline to another following the sparring session.

And Watson is in doubt he has shown he has the ability to go on and challenge for titles in the boxing ring as well.

“We know what sort of level Brett is at now and he’s definitely capable of winning a British Challenge belt or the Northern Area title,” said Watson.

“Mike Jackson and Nathan Gorman said he’s very good considering he’s not done a lot of boxing in the past. His background is in MMA and he’s switched over quite well.

“He’s a strong lad and he’s got good fitness, he just needs that bit more sparring at the higher level and he’ll come on loads.”