By Luke Furman
Russian promotional company "World of Boxing" - run by businessman Andrei Ryabinsky, made a big announcement on Wednesday. The Russian promoter revealed that Hollywood actor and former professional boxer Mickey Rourke will return to the ring on November 28th in Moscow, as part of the Ruslan Provodnikov-Jose Luis Castillo undercard. Rourke, 61-years-old, will face 29-year-old Elliot Seymour (1-9, 1KO) of the United States.
Rourke started boxing at age 12, when he lived with his mother and stepfather, in Miami. After gaining popularity on the big screen, he returned to the ring in 1991. Under the guidance of legendary trainer Freddie Roach, Rourke boxed for three years and had eight fights (6-0-2, 4KOs). But because of injuries he had to leave professional boxing.
"Boxing is a very beautiful sport. Boxing is a serious part of my life. It taught me respect and perseverance, patience and concentration. I've always wanted to have a fight in Russia. Now thanks to Andrei Ryabinsky I have the opportunity," said Rourke.
Also on the card is Olympic gold medal winner Rakhim Chakhkiev and big puncher Dmitry Kudryashov.
Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org