THOMPSON HOPING TO LINE UP AGAINST CENTURIANS

The amateur international forward, who is also one of the country’s top-ranked light-heavyweight fighters, is lined up for a scrap in War in Workington Nine tonight.

And depending how he emerges from the showdown, the Whitehaven battler could line-up for the Hornets at the Sports Village, when they face their toughest test of the season against the Championship outfit.

“Kevin’s happy to do it, as he doesn’t want to let the Brow down. He loves playing rugby,” said younger brother Martin, the former British No.1 heavyweight cage fighter, who is currently sidelined with a back injury. Some lads are coming over from Newcastle to watch the fight, but we won’t be able to celebrate tonight.

“He hopes to be fit for Sunday.

“The show starts at 4pm, and he’s hoping for an early night and a good sleep.”

Thompson has been travelling regularly to the North-East to work with MMA legend Ian Freeman to prepare for the clash with kick boxer Shaun Lomas at Fusion nightclub.

“Shaun knows the game,” Martin added. “But Kevin’s had plenty of build-up and is well-prepared. I’m expecting another good result.”

Kevin took a fight at short notice against Craig Bulmer at a Strike and Submit event in Gateshead last week, forcing a first round stoppage.

“The guy looked a lot bigger than Kevin but couldn’t defend his punches,” Martin said.

“The blows were sickening and it lasted just over a minute.”

Martin Thompson hopes to see a back specialist in Newcastle within four weeks to discover the extent of his injury.