Former world champion Wayne McCullough begins his quest to reach the top once again tomorrow night at the Mohegan Sun Casino, Uncasville, Connecticut. McCullough has spent 15 months out of the ring following his first defeat in January last year and a bitter dispute with American promoter Mat Tinley.

Now the Ulsterman takes the first step towards a second shot at the WBC super-bantamweight title, held by Mexican Erik Morales who took it from Daniel Zaraguza - the only man to have beaten McCullough.

With peace now reigning in the 27-year-old's camp, Tinley believes that McCullough, who faces Mexican Guillermo Noriega in a 10-rounder, can conquer the world.

"Wayne is still a great fighter and I believe he will be world champion again," said Tinley. "Wayne is the number one challenger to Morales and that fight has to happen in the summer.

"This fight with Noriega is a good test for him and it's like starting all over again for Wayne. He will box again in May before facing Morales."

Next month Morales defends his world title against countryman Jose Luis Bueno - who lost a split decision to McCullough for the WBC bantam title in 1996 - and the winner must then meet the Ulsterman.

Back On Track . . . . Wayne McCullough steps back into the ring tomorrow night in Connecticut when he faces Mexican Guillermo Noriega.