Hamed will not duck Barrera

Hamed struggled against the unfancied Calvo

Naseem Hamed is desperate to avenge his loss to Marco Antonio Barrera and has no intention of ducking a rematch, according to promoter Barry Hearn.

Hamed was booed by the crowd in an unconvincing win over Manuel Calvo on Saturday night, his first fight since suffering defeat to Barrera in April last year.

His muted performance led many, including British heavyweight champion Danny Williams, to question the Sheffield fighter's motivation.

Danny Williams' verdict

However, Hearn said Hamed's display was due to injury and rustiness, and that the former world champion was still on track to meet Barrera.

"One thing Naseem never does is duck opponents," Hearn told Radio Five Live.

Brodie could be next up for Hamed

"The Barrera rematch is contracted but it will not be possible before the end of the year."

Hearn explained that Hamed could next face British contender Michael Brodie, followed by American Johnny Tapia before confronting Barrera.

The Mexican fighter is due to face compatriot Eric Morales, after their original fight was postponed due to an injury to Barrera.

"Naz is definitely not going to duck Barrera," said Hearn.

"He wants that fight. He doesn't need the money, he just wants to be a legend. Last night wasn't a great spectacle and Naz will want to come back in style in the next one."

Hearn revealed that Hamed was hampered by a hand injury against Calvo, and tests would show whether it was broken.

"There are two or three reasons why Naz didn't deliver," he said.