Garner Plots World Title Route Ahead Of Bellotti Clash

Ahead of his upcoming bout against Reece Bellotti, the prospect of challenging for a world title at St Mary`s Stadium remains a significant goal for Ryan Garner, much like it was before his previous contest.

Garner and Bellotti are set to face each other on July 26th at the Bournemouth International Centre, topping the bill for a Queensberry Promotions event on England`s South Coast.

Beyond just being a local derby, this domestic encounter is expected to be a captivating contest for fans, combining skillful boxing with intense action.

European super-featherweight champion Garner, who boasts a 17-0 record with 8 knockouts, recently secured a dominant points win over Salvador Jimenez, showcasing his superior skills across all twelve rounds.

Before that, ‘The Piranha’ established himself domestically by clearly defeating tough opponents like Liam Dillon and Archie Sharp on points.

Although the prestigious Lonsdale Belt has so far eluded him, the 27-year-old now aims to claim that honour by defeating Bellotti, who holds a 20-5 record with 15 stoppages.

Bellotti, the current British and Commonwealth champion, is enjoying a late career resurgence and hopes to continue his impressive six-fight winning streak.

Having also defeated Dillon, and delivering strong performances against fighters such as Michael Gomez Jr and Aqib Fiaz, Bellotti has undoubtedly earned his opportunity for the European title.

However, Bellotti, aged 34, will again be fighting away from home, whereas Garner is eager to put on another spectacular performance for his local supporters.

Garner stated regarding the fight:

I believe I am slightly sharper and possess a better boxing intellect than [Bellotti]. But you never know; on fight night, the plan could change completely, and it might turn into a brawl instead.

On the St Mary`s dream, Garner commented:

I think it’s meant to be. I’m supposed to win this fight and then eventually compete at St Mary’s Stadium. Discussions have already taken place between Queensberry Promotions and [Southampton Football Club], so I think it’s a possibility for June of next year.

Headlining a boxing event at his favourite football club`s ground has been Garner`s long-standing dream, and it now seems within reach.

Assuming he defeats Bellotti, the Southampton fighter plans to capitalise on his WBC ranking and target a world title opportunity in the summer of 2026.

Garner highlighted his ranking and future:

I’m currently ranked number seven by the WBC, which is O’Shaquie Foster’s belt. But there are talks about [Anthony] Cacace fighting him in Belfast. Titles are always changing hands, but I’ll face anyone. My main goal is to earn as much as possible to support my family. Ultimately, I’m a prize fighter, and boxing careers are brief; I’m not getting any younger. Therefore, I simply want to maximise my earnings and win as many titles as possible along the way. I believe I can become a legend in Southampton.