Yafai on the fast track

Kal Yafai: Ready to be fast-tracked through the ranks (pic leighdawneyphotography.com)

Kal Yafai is hoping to be fast-tracked to a title shot after winning his third professional fight in Belfast on Saturday night.

"He took everything I gave him, and I was really digging them in there. "
Kal Yafai Quotes of the week

Appearing on the Frampton vs Molitor bill, Yafai was taken the distance by Mexican Victor Koh in a six-round contest.

With vast amateur experience Yafai, a Beijing Olympian who just missed out on a place in the London 2012 team, already looks the part.

Promoter Eddie Hearn is looking to give him at least two more fights before the end of the year and Yafai is looking forward to moving up the domestic rankings in quick time.

"I would have been happier getting him out of there in four or five, but six is good," the 23-year-old told Sky Sports. "I know Eddie wanted me to do six.

"It's going to be a fast journey to the top so it's good getting the rounds in. I knew he was going to be tough - these Mexicans are tough! He took everything I gave him, and I was really digging them in there.

"Hats off to him. It was great, I prepared well sparring eight and 10 rounds, I was more than ready. We'll move up and I think I can be moved up pretty quick."

Hearn is finding it difficult to match Yafai and paid tribute to the durable Koh.

"It was great. I sent email out saying I need someone to do six rounds, and I think that was one of the few people at bantamweight that wouldn't get stopped," he said.

"Great performance, great learning fight and well worth the airfares because the last couple of fights have been too easy.

"He'll learn so much from that and four weeks from now he's back out in Sheffield on the Kell Brook card."