• Boxing

Cleverly set for November return

Nathan Cleverly suffered the first loss in his career to Sergey Kovalev © PA Photos

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Nathan Cleverly is set to make his comeback to the ring on November 30 when he takes on Daniel Ammann for the vacant Commonwealth title.

The 25-year-old relinquished his WBO light-heavyweight belt to Sergey Kovalev in August after suffering the first defeat of his career, and the Welshman will return as a cruiserweight at the Copper Box Arena.

"I'm ready to return and I can't wait for November 30 at the Copper Box Arena and show that Nathan Cleverly is back," Cleverly said.

"I've got the hunger and desire back and I want to be a world champion again. I miss having the belt around my waist, but it's not just about the belt."

There were rumours that Cleverly was going to hang up his gloves, but he has revealed retirement was an option he was never going to choose.

"I didn't want to let my fans down, who have supported me in my career, my family down and more importantly I didn't want to let myself down by going out on a loss. I knew deep down that I wanted to fight again and I just needed time to focus on what I wanted to do," he said.

"I was on a high for so long winning the British, Commonwealth and European titles in quick time and then winning the world title and making five successful defences. In five years I had 15 championship fights and I felt invincible.

"The loss to Kovalev has brought me back down to earth and made me realise what I want and that is to be world champion again. The thought of winning a second world title now really excites and motivates me, but the road back will be hard and I'm looking forward to testing my character and resolve."

Ammann has lost five times throughout his career, recording 29 wins and one draw, and has triumphed in his previous eight bouts.

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