Meanwhile, WBC superstar Ryan Garner will fight former world champion James (Jazza) Dickens on January 9 in Bournemouth.
Southampton-based Garner, who is undefeated in 20 professional fights, will defend his interim 130lb belt for the first time against Michael Magnesi in June at St Mary’s Stadium in Italy.
Advertisement
Dickens, who has a record of 36-7, returned to winning ways with a victory over Ramadhani Kimwaga in September after losing to Antonio Cacace for the WBA featherweight belt in March this year.
Cacace will take on Nick Ball in the defense of his WBA belt in December, when Emanuel Navarrete fights O’Shaquie Foster for the WBC, WBO and IBF titles on Saturday.
Garner won the European super-heavyweight title at the start of 2025, before claiming the British and Commonwealth belts when he beat Reece Bellotti later this year.
‘liberates hospitality’;
“In terms of ticket sales, Ryan Garner has become one of the most popular fighters in the country and delivers every time,” said fight promoter Frank Warren.
Advertisement
“The event in June was a great success and we want to return to St. Mary’s again in 2027 for a bigger fight.
“First though, Ryan will be tested by a smart old campaigner in Jazz Dickens, a veteran of many big battles and one smart customer.”
“This will be the toughest test for Ryan to date and deservedly so. If he is to become the world champion, as we think he will be, then he must have the measure of Jazz and prove his readiness.”
Garner’s fight at the St. Mary’s Stadium in June lasted 12 rounds of great passion and grueling action, as he put on a classy display for the Italian Magnesium in front of 13,000 fans.
Advertisement
With that fight, Garner has rejoined his former opponent at the gym, with trainer Wayne Batten now looking for both fighters in Southampton.