Phil Sutcliffe Jr hopes for future Tyrone McKenna fight ahead of long-awaited return

Phil Sutcliffe [14(9)-2(1)] makes his long-awaited return to the ring next weekend and is keen to make up for lost time.

The Dublin light welter has not fought since last December – an impressive stoppage win over Andreas Maier – being forced to pull out of two fights with Tyrone McKenna through injury during this time.

Sutcliffe, now 29, makes his return at the Titanic Exhibition Centre on Friday December 7th where he will face a to-be-confirmed opponent.

It’s been a tough twelve months for Sutcliffe who has recovered from serious injuries but the EU bronze medallist has remained positive.

‘Succo’ outlined how “it’s nearly been a full year. By the time I step back in the ring, it’ll be over a year. The body is good now – it’s getting back to itself. I’ve had a few setbacks but I keep moving forward.”

“I’m feeling good. I’m in great condition. I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring. It’s been a hard, frustrating year but there’s no point moaning about it.”

“I’m looking forward to hearing that bell and being in that situation again. I’m a bit nervous at the same time but it’s what I love doing so it weighs out the balance. I’ve been training 10 weeks so I can’t wait to hear that bell again.”

The fighter, now training with Pete Taylor, is emboldened by his support and the popular Dub will have a lot of people cheering him on as he returns to the ring.

Sutcliffe admits that “it’s a big night for me. I have a good few people travelling up. My regulars will be there and that helps. Support drives me on. People taking tickets off me is a great feeling in itself. I have to perform for them and for myself. I hope the atmosphere is a good one on the night.”

His fight next week will be versus a journeyman but the Crumlin power-puncher is keen to return to big fights in 2019.

A fight with McKenna, who faces Lewis Benson in Scotland this Saturday, still appeals and Sutcliffe is backing his rival to get the win in Glasgow.

“Maybe down the line, I’ll face Tyrone McKenna like I was supposed to,” he predicts.

“I know he has a big fight and I’m glad to see he’s doing very well. I wish him the best of luck this weekend I think he can beat Lewis Benson.”

Photo Credit: Ricardo Guglielminotti – The Fighting Irish (@ThefIrish)