Former world title challenger Brian Rose has assured fans they’ll see the best of him as he prepares to fight for the first time in 18 months on Friday.
 
‘The Lion’ (29-5-1-KO8) returns to action on the MTK Global show in Manchester – live on iFL TV – and then heads for York Hall for a shot at Luke Keeler’s WBO European middleweight title on December 14.
 
Having reigned as British light-middleweight champion between 2010 and 2012, Rose is relishing the prospect of returning to the big fight nights.


 
Rose said: “I’m happy to be starting off with a six-rounder before the title fight against Keeler. I’ll blow the cobwebs off.
 
“I’m going to keep focused and I think you’ll see the best of me because of that. I’m not just saying it – you’ll see the best Brian Rose. I’m not making this comeback for the money; it’s for myself, mentally.
 
“It shows a lot about my character to do it for the love of it. There was a time I was jumping in there to pay bills but I’m not in that position now. I’m in the best place I’ve been in mentally and physically for years. I can’t wait to get people talking about me again. I can’t wait – I’m excited.
 
“If you look back on my career when I challenged for the British title, I won it and defended it three times in the space of 12 months. I fought four times in a year and they were my best days and great performances. When I’m active, you see the best Brian Rose.
 
“I want to thank MTK Global for all their help. They’ve worked tirelessly. They could’ve put me in with anyone and used my name for up-and-coming fighters but they didn’t. A lot of people are saying I should retire but I’ll prove them wrong and I’ve got the chance to do that now. I believe I’m with the best management company in the world.”
 
Rose returns on a busy bill in Manchester that includes his MTK Global team-mates Liam Conroy, Mike McGoldrick, Craig Bunn, Ben Sheedy plus Savannah Marshall and more.