Terri Harper backed to graduate to superstar status with win over WBC champion Eva Wahlstrom

IBO champion Harper is threatening to fully emerge as British boxing's next breakout female star, such is the attention she has steadily garnered throughout her short career.

And the Denaby Main fighter will make a huge statement if she ends the five year reign of WBC champion Eva Wahlstrom in Sheffield next week, backed by more than 700 of her own fans.

"On the eighth I think it's graduation night for Terri Harper," Bull said.

"It's a WBC world title. She's not had the recognition she deserves for winning the IBO title but we're very proud IBO champions.

"To be crowned WBC champion, she'll be the first British fighter to win this title.

"It'll be graduation night and all eyes will be on Terri and people will see what I've been seeing for the last couple of years.

"We're very excited.

"I think in 12 to 18 months Terri could be the frontrunner in women's boxing.

"That is how good she is.

"I think people are seeing it. You could see with the numbers in for the public workout.

"She's got full support from Matchroom and I know Eddie Hearn has big plans for her.

"I think everyone is cottoning on now."

Harper's status is emphasised by the chief support role she has been handed to next Saturday's headliner, former world champion Kell Brook, who returns to action in his home city for the first time in almost 18 months.

She was also the main attraction of a public workout at Bull's gym in Denaby earlier this week.

Opponent Wahlstrom has lost only once in her career - against superstar Katie Taylor - and has made four successful defences of her WBC title.

At 39 however, the Finnish fighter is entering the twilight of her career and Bull has backed South Yorkshire's first female pro boxer to usher in the new generation.

"Terri wins this fight as comfortably as she wants to," he said.

"I just think she's that good.

"I know Terri thinks she can stop her and that's what she's got in her mind.

"I can just see her giving her a masterclass in boxing and looking a million dollars.

"I really believe she will steal the show. She's taking that much support, the atmosphere will be electric.

"Eva Wahlstrom is not better than Terri Harper at anything and I think that will show."