IT would have been a David and Goliath battle a few years back.
But Highland heavyweight boxer Gary Cornish hopes he has more than a fighting chance of taking on and beating former world champion Evander Holyfield.
The American-born former WBA, WBC and IBF title holder made global headlines in 1997 after Mike Tyson was disqualified for biting a chunk out of his ear during a title bout.
Holyfield, 51, who took part in 57 fights, is making a comeback after three years away from the sport.
Promoter Frank Warren has confirmed that he will make an official approach to the British Boxing Board of Control requesting that they grant Holyfield a licence. Top of his list to fight five-time champion Holyfield is Cornish, from Inverness.
Warren's spokesman said: "An inquiry has been made to Holyfield's camp and they are interested. An application will also shortly be lodged with the British Boxing Board of Control.
"We think Cornish is a great prospect and someone worth getting behind. A fight of this magnitude would propel him into the limelight."
Cornish's manager, Tommy Gilmour added: "Holyfield is one of those being mentioned as a possible opponent for Gary and it would represent a huge step up for him.
"It is also in the plans for Gary to spar with Dereck Chisora again in the build-up to his fight with Tyson Fury for the vacant British title in July. Gary may also get a spot on the Chisora undercard in Manchester for a title of some description."
Holyfield has not boxed since defeating Denmark's Brian Nielsen in May 2011.
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