Caoimhin Agyarko is ready to get back on the knockout path to help convince promoter Eddie Hearn to add Belfast to his 2023 plans.
Agyarko is down to a perfect 12-0 record in the professional ranks, but has been sidelined for 10 months after needing surgery on a hand injury.
She has called this weekend’s comeback at Katie Taylor’s homecoming show in Dublin a “little comeback fight” and is hoping to put on a big performance in front of her home fans.
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And if Agyarko can make a statement at the 3Arena, then it could kick off another great night in his hometown.
He told iFLTV: “I want to headline shows in Belfast. This is the first step in showing Eddie (Hearn).
“When the fans come out and support me on Saturday night and I get a good win, it’s time to come to Belfast. It’s been too long since I’ve fought in Belfast.”
“I fought there in my fourth fight, and now I have an unrealistic fan base and can sell tickets. The Belfast fans have my back; all of Ireland has my back.”
“Time to go back to Belfast in the next six to 12 months.”
Agyarko admits that Dublin will feel right at home when he steps into the ring against Dennis on Saturday night.
The pair stepped in on Friday for their lightweight-middleweight clash, with the Belfast man looking for an early finish to the bout.
“I just feel like I’m better in every department. I’m faster, stronger and in better shape,” he said.
“I’ve fought Grant before and I know what to expect from him. I just don’t see a way for him to beat me unless he has that KO punch that his history doesn’t suggest.
“But anything can happen in boxing. As far as I’m sure, I don’t take anything for granted at night.
“I would like to win inside the distance. I never want to go the distance.
“My last two fights have gone the full 10 rounds. I want to start the KO train again and get the stoppage inside the distance.”
Agyarko added: “It’s an honor to be in Dublin, at home. I’m looking forward to coming back for what is kind of a comeback fight.
“The inactivity was a great mental challenge. I love being in the gym and training. I eat, live and breathe boxing like it has been my whole life since I was seven years old.
“Even when I got stabbed, I was only out for five months, so being out for 10 months was tough. It was the longest I’ve ever been out of the ring.”
“I tried to do as much as I could, using one hand in the gym and doing some running and strength work.”
Fighting in front of a home crowd could put more pressure on Agyarko’s shoulders, but he insists he “thrives under the lights.”
He said: “No one puts more pressure on me than me. I just focus on my performances and enjoy being back at home in front of my own fans.”
“It’s amazing to give my fans a great night, to see me on the undercard of one of the greatest athletes of all time. It’s amazing what Katie Taylor has done for Irish boxing and women’s boxing.
“It promises to be a special night.”
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