Ryan Burnett's next fight date has been announced.
The former unified bantamweight world champion hasn't been seen since November when he suffered a serious back injury during his World Boxing Super Series quarter-final clash with Nonito Donaire .
Burnett has been back training following his recovery and will make a sensational return on the #MTKFightNight at Belfast’s Ulster Hall on May 17.
The Adam Booth-trained fighter (19-1, 9 KOs) is straight back into a title fight in front of his home fans as he meets Jelbirt Gomera (14-5, 7 KOs) for the WBC International super-bantamweight crown.
Burnett said: “I want to be world champion again. Nothing else matters. This is a significant step in that campaign and I’m delighted it’s taking place in my home city.
“My opponent on May 17 is in the way of my being back where I know I belong. You will see my determination on fight night.”
Ryan Burnett back in training as Belfast boxer plots world title glory again
Booth said: “Myself and MTK Global have a plan to get Ryan back to where he should be, which is world champion status.
“His hunger and desire are greater than ever before so there’s no doubt he can head back to the top. Enjoy the ride.”
MTK Global Professional Development Coordinator Jamie Conlan added: "This is just fantastic news for everyone concerned. We're delighted to be welcoming Ryan and Adam to another huge event in Belfast.
"Ryan's achievements speak for themselves. He unified as a world champion, and we believe it's only a matter of time before he's back at the very top of the sport.
"Belfast fans and all those who come from outside the city to this event are in for a real treat. These shows with our friends at Top Rank and ESPN+ are already getting bigger and bigger."
Already confirmed to be joining Burnett on the first ever UK #MTKFightNight broadcast on ESPN platforms are MTK Global teammates Declan Geraghty and Marco McCullough, who will contest the IBF European super-featherweight title.
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