By his own admission Tyson Fury is not yet ready to challenge the Klitschkos’ heavyweight dominance. But the British and Commonwealth champion’s latest victory has proved the time is right to take the next step.

A fifth-round stoppage of Nicolai Firtha was better than WBA champion Alexander Povetkin managed against the experienced American. And Povetkin could now prove Fury’s best route towards the world title he craves.

The 23-year-old from Wilmslow won in fairly contentious circumstances, with refereeJohn Keane prematurely stepping in after Firtha sustained a big right.

Fury was convinced his opponent was ripe for the knockout – and it could be argued that the early stoppage robbed him of a more emphatic victory.

But five pulsating rounds in Belfast’s King’s Hall only enhanced the unbeaten Wilmslow fighter’s burgeoning reputation and sets up a 2012 that will surely see him go up against the world’s elite heavyweights.

There are still plenty of domestic opponents who can be used to help him hone his craft such as David Price, Martin Rogan and potentially a third clash with John McDermott.

But Fury is relentlessly moving towards bigger names.

Though his latest win once again highlighted his inexperience – surviving a torrid third round when Firtha’s overhand right caused his knees to buckle – he also confirmed the sturdiness of his chin and his unquestionable heart.

They are qualities that will be vital if he is to succeed on the biggest stage – and when allied to his stature and technique, explain why he is generating so much excitement.

But Fury is also astute enough to know that his vulnerabilities only make him all the more watchable.

"I came to put on a fight," he said. "I can box like anyone. I could’ve made it one-sided with my jab, but I came to fight. I’m a fighting man – it’s what I do for a living. I try to entertain. No one wants to see paint dry and someone jabbing away. They want to see blood, sweat and snot – everything. And that’s what I try to give.

"Hopefully I can go on to do big things – win a world title. I’m looking at whoever they put in front of me. I won’t avoid anyone.

"I’m ready to fight and if I’m any good, I will win."

Fighting just eight weeks after defeating Dereck Chisora to win the British and Commonwealth belts, Fury could be back in action as soon as November.