Joe show coming home as Ward announces first pro fight on Irish soil

Joe Ward is getting ready to box in Ireland for the first time in his professional career next month.

The light heavyweight prospect is planning to return to the ring on Saturday, September 23, on a bill that's currently being finalised in Dublin's National Stadium.

Speaking to the Westmeath Independent this afternoon, Ward said he was greatly looking forward to the fight, which will be his first on Irish soil since his last national title win as an amateur in 2017.

After a hugely successful amateur career he turned pro in 2019, and his ten fights since then have taken place in the United States (6), Mexico (2), Puerto Rico and Canada.

The bout in Dublin will be an eight-rounder, and Ward's opponent is expected to be confirmed in the coming days.

The local man said the contest would be part of a night of boxing featuring a number of other up-and-coming fighters.

"When I burst onto the scene, in 2011 and 2012, the National Stadium was absolutely rocking and there was that rivalry there between myself and Kenny Egan at the time," said Ward.

"I'm looking forward to bringing that kind of atmosphere back to the stadium. I'm planning to put on a really good performance and showcase what I can do.

"It will be a night where the real boxing fans, and the people who have been following me through the years, can come along and enjoy a great night of boxing, which is what the National Stadium is all about."

Ward will now be flying to New York for a three-week training camp, before returning home a few days before the bout in Dublin.

He is hoping next month's contest will be "a stepping stone" towards a bigger fight in November.

Ward's last bout was in Canada in March and was a first round stoppage win against a previously unbeaten Mexican, Mario Andrade Rodriguez.

He said ticket arrangements for the fight in Dublin were still being made, but that he would have tickets for sale if people contact him via Facebook.