Wayne Alexander has vowed to become a world champion.

The 27-year-old reigning British champion was stopped in the fifth round while challenging Nambia's Harry Simon for the WBO light-middleweight title in Widness on Saturday.

But Alexander, who moved to Hailsham three weeks ago, is determined to bounce back and become a world champion by the end of the year.

Another shot at the WBO crown could come earlier than expected. Simon is now expected to move up to middleweight, leaving Alexander and Manchester's Anthony Farnell as the most likely contenders for the vacant title.

Alexander took Saturday's showdown at 24 hours notice, having received a call on Friday afternoon when American Robert Allen withdrew due to stomach cramps.

Boasting a record of 15 wins from 15 fights, 13 by knockout, Alexander was seen as a good match for Simon and did not disappoint.

Alexander said: "I did my best. I got the call-up at short notice. It was a very big pay-day for me and I had to take it. It was the opportunity of a lifetime and I had nothing to lose."

Alexander will have two months rest after breaking his hand during the fight