Dunne to make comeback in Castlebar

Boxing:   Former European champion Bernard Dunne will return to the ring when he takes on former world champion Felix Machado at the Breaffy International Sports Hotel in Castlebar in April.

Dunne's return to action comes after he lost a European title fight last August against Kiko Martinez.  
 
"I just can't wait and it's great to have a date to work towards now," said the Dublin boxer. "I've had a good break and I got to spend a lot of time with the latest addition to the family (after the birth of his second child in December).

The 28-year-old is focused on putting his one defeat as a professional behind him. "To be honest I don't care who's in the other corner," said Dunne. "I just want to get back in there and get back on track starting with this fight on April 12th." 

Dunne also said he will continue to campaign at super bantamweight and is hopeful of a rematch with Martinez.

The April fight in Mayo will headline the Hunky Dorys Fight Night at the International Events Arena within the Breaffy House Resort as promoter Brian Peters continues to bring top class fight nights to varied venues around Ireland.

"The facilities at Breaffy House Resort are top class," said the promoter. "We had a very successful show in Limerick with Andy Lee in February and we have Paul McCloskey headlining in Letterkenny next month, so there's a huge appetite around the country now for professional boxing and it's great to see."

There is also plenty of local interest on the April under card as Mayo cruiserweight Michael "The Storm" Sweeney looks to extend his unbeaten run. Castlebar's Keith Cresham will also make his pro debut at light heavyweight.

Tickets for the Hunky Dorys Fight Night are priced at €60 and go on sale from Ticketmaster and all usual outlets from 9am tomorrow.

© 2008 The Irish Times