Tommy Coyle to Make Comeback Fight for Charity

Tommy Coyle Returns to the Ring for Charity

Former Commonwealth lightweight champion Tommy Coyle is set to step back into the ring after more than five years away. The Hull native plans to fight once again to raise funds for boxing clubs in both Hull and Liverpool.

Fight Details and Background

Coyle will face off against Derry Mathews, a previous opponent, in a bout scheduled for 11 December at a venue in Hull that has not yet been announced. Their first meeting was in 2013 at Craven Park, where Mathews won by knockout in the 10th round during their contest for the Commonwealth title.

The 37-year-old fighter shared his mixed feelings about returning: "The response has been incredible. It's humbling and exciting, but I’m a bit nervous as well." He added, "Who knows what’s going to happen? In round 10, I got knocked out, so let’s see if I can turn back the clock. We’re two old pros who are friends, and we’re going to go at it and try to create some memories."

Personal Reflection and Motivation

This comeback also marks a poignant moment for Coyle, who recently lost his father Chris in 2022. Chris had played a significant role throughout Tommy’s boxing career. Coyle reflected, "It will be the first fight my dad’s not seen. It’s sad, but I can’t stop doing things just because he’s not around anymore. He isn’t coming back and I’ve had to learn to come to terms with that. I’ve really struggled with him not being around; he was my best friend."

He explained how preparing for the fight will help him cope: "For the next 12 weeks, it will give me something to focus on, something to chase, and something to occupy my mind. If I say I’m doing something, I always do it."

Support for Boxing Community

Coyle emphasized the benefits of the fight beyond himself: "Boxing fans will be the winners in this fight as well as the clubs we’re raising money for."

• Fight Date: 11 December
• Location: Hull (venue to be confirmed)
• Fighters: Tommy Coyle vs Derry Mathews
• Coyle's Age: 37
• Previous Match Result: Mathews won by 10th-round knockout in 2013