It’s not quite Matthew Macklin versus Andy Lee but ‘Mack The Knife’ could be afforded the chance to prove he can still cut it at fringe world level with a Brian Rose clash in April.

According to reports in Britain three time World middleweight  title challenger Macklin and WBO light middleweight title challenger Rose will trade leather in London on April 9.

Rose has confirmed he is on the Anthony Joshua topped London card and former European, Irish and British champ Macklin looks set to be confirmed as the fighter who will man the opposite corner.

Macklin is hopeful he can secure a fourth world title shot in 2016, whether or not a bout with Rose provides direct passage to tilt remains to be seen, but it would be a high profile clash and an impressive performance would certainly improve the Matchroom fighters chances.

The fight has yet to be officially confirmed and as a result speculation as to whether it will play out at middleweight or light middle remains.