Listen to the full interview via the podcast.

2014 could see some big fights against Felix Sturm and Andy Lee according to Matthew Macklin.

Fresh from beating American Lamar Russ in Atlantic City, the middleweight told Off The Ball that Felix Sturm is likely to be his next opponent.

Macklin has plenty of previous with the German who beat Darren Barker at the weekend to claim the IBF World Middleweight title.

The Birmingham-born fighter controversially came off the wrong end of a split decision against Sturm in 2011 and is gunning for the chance of a rematch which seems increasingly likely.

"The Lee fight is still a fight I'd be very open to. I've always wanted it. It's bigger now than it ever was. But obviously Felix Sturm beating Darren Barker in the fashion that he did...if he wants to give me a rematch, then it's a fight I'd jump at. It's a fight I won in the first place and was robbed. I think he owes me a rematch," said Macklin.

The 31-year-old said that Sturm has not been serious about a rematch since their controversial bout in 2011.

But he told us that a rematch is inevitable.

"If the Barker rematch doesn't happen, then there is a very good chance that me and Sturm will fight next," said Macklin, suggesting a March or April date, adding:

"Coming through that, I'd give Andy Lee first defence." 

Main image: Felix Sturm lands a right on Matthew Macklin (green) ©INPHO/Getty Images