Luke Keeler versus Mark Hefferon in the works for September

Luke Keeler [17(5)-3(2)-1] could take step one along the path to a second world title shot against an big punching English middleweight.

Irish-boxing.com understands the Ballyfermot 160lbs fighter has agreed to face Mark Hefferon [25(19)-1(1)] in what would be his first fight since losing to WBO world champion Demetrius Andrade in January.

Speaking to Irish-boxing.com when calling out Jason Quigley earlier this year, Keeler revealed he was hoping for a summer warm-up before targeting a fighter that would lead him to a second tilt.

It seems the Ballyfermot fighter returns in a clash that is somewhere in between, as both fighters have agreed in principle to trade leather.

Hefferon, a Manchester based fighter with Irish roots, was deemed a big prospect when he first turned over, but spent a time out of the spotlight up and until 2018.

Two years ago he was handed a big breakthrough chance when he took on Liam Williams for the British title.

Williams, who is now a middleweight world title hopeful himself, inflicted a first career defeat on the fighter who twice fought in Ireland.

Hefferon, who has 19 knockouts from 25 wins, has rebuilt with four wins since and looks to have been handed a second breakthrough bout.

It’s a high enough profile fight for former Irish middleweight champion, Keeler, but considering his rival has yet to prove himself at the higher level, it’s one he will be confident of winning.

The Pete Taylor trained former full time engineer will hope to secure a September win before surveying his world title options. He may need one more big win, but that is something he is aware of.

Irish-boxing.com reached out to the Dub for comment and he wasn’t willing to discuss potential opponent, but did reveal he plans to be back in the ring sometime in September.