Big Rogie confirms ring return – heavyweight to headline Belfast BIBA bill

46 year old Martin Rogan [16(8)-6(4)] has revealed he will fight again in Belfast next month.

The former Commonwealth heavyweight champion hasn’t fought since he lost to Michael Sprott in New Zealand back in 2014, but never officially retired, kept in shape, and was always open about his willingness to trade leather with willing opponents.

There were verbal back and forths with the likes of Sean ‘Big Sexy’ Turner, former foe Sam Sexton among others over the years and there were rumours of a clash with Murphy Boxing’s Niall Kennedy as recently as May.

However, while nothing seemed to come off for the popular and outspoken Belfast heavyweight he has now confirmed he will return to the ring in a ten round contest on Saturday September 23rd.

The former Prizefighter winner will top a show at the Titanic Exhibition Centre promoted by Lee McAllister’s Assassin Boxing Promotions and Management and sanctioned by the British and Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) – an offshoot of the Malta Boxing Commission, rather than the more established British Boxing Board of Control. (BBBoC).

The BIBA has proven to be a controversial topic for some in recent years, with plenty choosing to ignore it or class it as ‘less’ than BBBoC-sanctioned boxing. However, BIBA fights go on a fighter’s official record and the body ensures medical standards of a comparable level to the BBBoC.

No opponent has been confirmed, but Irish-Boxing.com understands ‘Big Rogie’ will take on a foe that reflects his three year absence rather one of the names previously mentioned.

There are some who suggest the veteran may struggle to make an impact in a competitive heavy division, but the fighter, who is already in camp and has been working at Academy One Fitness, is said to be confident in his fitness and endurance.

So far, Ards feather Stevie Quinn Jr [8(2)-2(0)] is the only fighter confirmed for the undercard, with more to be announced soon.

Tickets, starting at £25, will go on sale next week.