By Allen Payne
Dumbarton boxer Martin Harkin is set to return to the ring, as he prepares to face the undefeated Michael McKinson on October 17.
Martin, himself defending an unbeaten record, will be hoping to pick up where he left off in January – when he defeated James Moorcroft in emphatic fashion with a fifth round stoppage.
McKinson is currently ranked at number nine in the WBO world rankings and previously held the WBO European and WBC international belts. His last outing was in November last year, when he picked up a unanimous decision victory against Luis Alberto Veron.
The Covid-19 pandemic has meant that Harkin has had to wait longer than he hoped for his big opportunity. He said: “It was frustrating as I had my big win in January. We had a final eliminator sorted in April then the fight got called off before it was announced.
“I had to adapt to keep my training going over lockdown. There was lots of running and hitting the bag.
“My brother-in-law has his own gym set up so I was fortunate enough to be able to train there and continue weight sessions.”
Martin is one of only a handful of Scotsmen getting the opportunity to showcase their talent live on TV – with fights being strictly behind closed doors.
He continued: “Obviously, there are no events happening in Scotland just now so I’m delighted to be getting to box. I’m just grateful to be given this chance.
“I’ve not watched much of Michael McKinson but from what I’ve seen he’s a good fighter.
“It’s unfortunate my supporters can’t come and watch me but at least they will be able to watch the live stream on YouTube .
“Being behind closed doors won’t bother me. I’ll be too focused on the job at hand.”
“I’m ready to make up for lost time.”
