By James Hansworth: Kell Brook (29-0, 19 KO’s) moved one step closer to a world title by stopping Hector Saldivia (41-3, 32 KO’s) in round 3 at the Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield, Yorkshire, United Kingdom.

The relatively unknown and untested Argentinean came with a high knockout ratio but was unable to show his power due to a technically strong performance from Brook. Throughout every round Brook was elusive and his punching was measured and purposeful, resulting in a knockdown in round 1, with the end coming in round 3 from a stiff jab which Saldivia was unable to recover from after being counted out on unsteady legs.

Whilst this fight can’t be viewed as the ultimate litmus test for the legitimacy of Brook’s title aspirations, it does provide a degree of redemption for him after a below par performance in his last outing when he struggled to a majority decision victory over durable, underrated American, Carson Jones. The reasons given were poor preparation and the lack of a dietician or strength and conditioning coach, which were added for this training camp and Brook certainly looked like a new man tonight.

The future is a shot at the winner of the IBF welterweight title fight tonight between Randall Bailey (43-7, 37 KO’s) and Devon Alexander (23-1, 13 KO’s). Each fighter would provide a vastly different test for Brook but tonight’s performance suggests he would be more than capable of retaining his ‘0’ in either case, probably starting as a slight favourite or with even odds depending on the location of the fight. The most exciting prospect for the future is a bout between Brook and Amir Khan (26-3, 18 KO’s).

It is common knowledge that there is no love lost between the two, highlighted recently by their heated exchanges on Ringside. This fight could do huge numbers and sell out a large arena in the north of England, which should be enough incentive for the interested parties to make it happen.

A year ago it seemed that Khan was operating at a level above Brook and would win this fight if it was to happen but on recent evidence, that may have changed. Khan’s loss to Danny Garcia (24-0, 15 KO’s) showed that his weak chin was more problematic than previously thought. This, combined with Khan’s willingness to trade and Brook’s athleticism and strength at welterweight show that Brook could emerge victorious. Perhaps the main unknown variable that remains to be seen is the effect that Khan’s new trainer Virgil Hunter will have on his style in the ring.