Ryan Garner’s ‘dream’ stadium fight confirmed

Lifelong Southampton FC fan, and super featherweight contender Ryan Garner has long spoken of his desire to headline at the St Mary’s football stadium. That dream is now a reality, with Queensberry announcing Garner will face Michael Magnesi for the WBC Interim world super featherweight championship on June 20, live on DAZN.

Ryan Garner to fight at St Mary’s

This opportunity will represent the fulfilment of a dream for “The Piranha,” to fight on the pitch of the football team he supports.

Ryan Garner (19-0, 10 KOs) remains on the WBC route, and has been since he won the International title at York Hall against Juan Jesus Antunez.

The Southampton native has since defended that title against Liam Dillon, Archie Sharp, Salvador Jimenez and Reece Bellotti. Along the way, he also added the British, Commonwealth and European titles.

Magnesi (26-2, 13 KOs) has previously held the WBC International title held by Garner before becoming the IBO champion in 2020, stopping Patrick Kinigamazi. He defended that title twice more before losing via a split decision against Anthony Cacace.

It was also announced that British light heavyweight champion Lewis Edmondson (11-1, 3 KOs) will face European champion Lyndon Arthur (25-3, 16 KOs). Arthur won a hard-fought bout against Brad Rea to become the European champion. That and the Commonwealth title will be up for grabs.

Ryan Garner and Frank Warren react

Reacting to the news of his stadium fight, Ryan Garner said: “This has been my dream all along, and now it is coming true. Frank promised me he would make it happen, and he has always delivered for me right from the beginning.

“I believe this will be one of the biggest single sporting events ever to take place in the city, and I know that I’ve got the Southampton people behind me. It will just be an amazing occasion, but I have got a job to do against a tough opponent so I can make sure we can do this again and again.

“I am thrilled that we are sticking to the WBC title and, when I win this one, the champion will have no place to hide.”

Promoter Frank Warren added: “I am personally delighted to be putting on this special night for Ryan at St Mary’s. I am extremely fond of Ryan as he has been with us since day one on turning professional at 18, and his talent and potential has always been obvious.

“It has taken a little bit of time to get to this point, and through Ryan’s efforts and title successes, I can now deliver on my promise for him to fight at the home of Southampton FC, who have supported him tremendously.

“Winning this fight against Michael Magnesi is Ryan’s gateway to the big time and more major fights and massive occasions.

“I would like to extend my thanks to the staff and officials at Southampton FC for their help in making this happen for Ryan.”