On 18 April 2008, McDermott won the vacant BBBofC English heavyweight title, knocking out Pele Reid in the second round.

McDermott faced Danny Williams at Goresbrook Leisure Centre, Dagenham on 18 July 2008 for the British Title, but was defeated controversially by a majority points decision.

[4][5] After the referee handed the decision to Fury, Sky Sports commentator Jim Watt asked; "Has he [O'Connor] got the names mixed up?

"[4] Jim Watt along with other commentators Glenn McCrory, Johnny Nelson all scored the fight to McDermott, as did David Haye.

McDermott won a unanimous points decision against Matt Skelton on 16 March 2013 to regain the English Heavyweight title.