JACK Cullen is in top-tip shape ahead of his return to the Manchester Arena – as our pictures show.

Little Lever's Meat Cleaver will be looking to get back to winning ways at the iconic fight venue on Saturday, March 7.

The 26-year-old, who has won 17 of his 19 fights as a professional, shone in defeat against Commonwealth champion Felix Cash back in November.

The toe-to-toe battle wowed Sky Sports viewers before the Bolton fighter was stopped in the eighth round, promoter Eddie Hearn not ruling out a rematch in the coming months.

Now Cullen, a former English middleweight champion, is looking to bounce back and secure more title opportunities.

Photographer Karen Priestley was on hand to capture part of his preparation as the Tommy Battel-trained fighter headed to Ricky Hatton's gym in Hyde for some sparring.

There Cullen shared rounds with Jake Haigh, a Macclesfield super middleweight who has won all 11 of his fights, and well-travelled Irishman Brett McGinty.

Cullen's fight is part of a Matchroom Boxing card headlined by Bury favourite Scott Quigg's meeting with Jono Carroll.

For tickets priced between £40 and £200, the latter including complimentary drinks, contact Cullen on social media.