Updated 4th December 2008
The Sikh warrior faces his toughest test to date when he meets former British title challenger Marc Callaghan at Wigan's Robin Park Arena on November 7.
Provided he comes through the toughest test of his short professional career, the Harrow hard man will target British featherweight champion Paul Appleby.
Bhatia's, promoter Frank Maloney declared: "The time has come to take the reins off.
"I believe Akaash could become the best known British Asian sportsman now that we all know Amir Khan is no longer invincible."
In 2007, Bhatia was named the 'Most Up and Coming Sports Personality of the Year' at the prestigious Sony Entertainment Television Asia Sports Personality of the Year Awards.
And his stock continued to rise recently when he became the only boxer to be appointed as an ambassador to the Prince's Youth Trust.
'Kash the Bash', 25, is unbeaten in 12 fights and his showdown against Barking's Callaghan is his fourth contest of 2008.
Callaghan (19-14-1) has mixed at the highest level.. In his last four fights the former English champ has given problems to Esham Pickering, Rendall Munroe, Martin Lindsay and Paul Hyland.
Maloney added: "This is a big step up in class for Akaash, but I believe this is the right fight at the right time." |
