LUKE Blackledge is determined to make 2017 his year after losing last time out against Callum Smith.

The Bolton-based fighter, who went into the December bout at Manchester Arena on a seven-fight winning streak, was given his first chance to fight for a British Boxing Board of Control title but suffered defeat with a 10th-round knockout.

His rival Smith, who also fights out of Bolton as one of Joe Gallagher's stable at Gloves Community Centre in Halliwell, stretched his unblemished record to 22 wins with victory.

Blackledge’s previous fights were in the super-middleweight division and he packed on the pounds to make the step up to light-heavyweight.

In the early rounds, Blackledge was unable to get into his rhythm and offered very little in terms of aggression and pace. He suffered an early knockdown in the third round.

“His power had surprised me because I’ve never been hit like that before,” said 26-year-old Blackledge, who is from Clitheroe but fights out of Elite Gym in Halliwell.

“I was landing quite good shots on him throughout the fight and bringing the fight to him but he just never seemed to give up.”

It was a disappointing loss for Blackledge – a third of his professional career – but he is determined to bounce back this year.

“Taking three losses now in my career, it is not a bad thing because many greats in history have had bigger let downs and losses but they came back with great courage,” he said.

“We just have to get back in training camp and do a little bit more work. I’m still hungrier than ever.

“I’m looking to come back soon and start afresh.

"By the end of 2017 I want to at least achieve being a British champion.”