Hughes (29-8-2, 6 KOs) spoke of his frustration and eagerness to get back into the swing of things after narrowly losing a competitive WBA world lightweight title eliminator against Bakhodur Usmonov on December 12.

Usmonov (12-0, 5 KOs) came on strong to edge a 12-round majority decision in Dubai two weeks before Christmas, though the Yorkshire southpaw has found himself another opportunity to cause problems in the division above.

While not yet announced by Queensberry at the time of publication, it has been confirmed he will oppose former European junior welterweight champion Pierce O'Leary (18-0, 10 KOs) on the Jazza Dickens-Anthony Cacace undercard on March 14 in Dublin.

Portsmouth puncher Mark Chamberlain (17-1-1, 12 KOs) will not be ready in time after suffering an infection which hospitalized the 27-year-old, having originally spoken of his enthusiasm at spoiling the home hero's Irish party.

Queensberry chief Frank Warren told BoxingScene: "He [Chamberlain] is out, got a bad infection and was on an antibiotic drip in hospital. He's still recovering, so hopefully we can reschedule for in future, provided Pierce gets through Maxi Hughes. It's a great shame, sold-out show but we've still got a great main event and undercard."

In the area for a promotional event, Hughes had been sparring Irish featherweight Colm Murphy (16-0, 6 KOs) recently before his junior lightweight clash vs. Jono Carroll on the undercard. Now, they'll share the bill together.