MARTIN Murray is being lined up for a big fight in September after his second bout at super middleweight ended with the fifth round stoppage of Croatian southpaw Mirzet Bajrektraevic in Manchester.

Although there were groans that the scheduled eight rounder had been stopped prematurely – a view echoed by Murray – the decision only hastened the inevitable.

The 32-year-old Warrington-based fighter bossed his bulkier opponent - who usually boxes at light heavyweight - with his hand speed, accurate punching and body shots putting him well in control.

With less than ten seconds to go in round five the referee stepped in front of Bajrektarevic to save him from any more punishment - a decision that was challenged by the Croatian.

Although realistically there was no sign of the veteran southpaw turning it around in the remaining three rounds, Murray agreed that the stoppage came too early.

He said: “I’ve got to be honest – even though I was in complete control – it was a little bit premature.

“I was only going to get it in a couple of rounds, but it’s the referee’s decision.

“He’s only the second southpaw I have fought – Martinez being the first – and I had to adjust to get around that style.

"But once I got used to it I went to work, getting in there and slowing him down.”

Saturday’s win was Murray’s second victory in three weeks in the north west – and that has whetted his barmy army and promoter’s appetite for a big one next time out.

“I’m ready whenever and active now and local and Eddie (Hearn) knows if the right fight comes along he only has to throw me a name and I’ll be there,” Murray said.

Murray has made a good start under new promoter Matchroom and his ability to bring a crowd, with the Barmy Army turning out in force at short notice at the big arenas of Liverpool and Manchester has caught the eye of Eddie Hearn.

The promoter said: “He’s had two run outs now in a couple weeks after a tough run of international bouts.

“The plan now is a big fight in September – and he’s ready for that.”