Southampton's Ryan Garner is set to fulfill his dream of fighting at St Mary’s Stadium, the home ground of Southampton Football Club. On June 20, Garner will face Michael Magnesi for the WBC ‘interim’ super-featherweight title, an opportunity he has long envisioned. Garner, who has been training with his coach Wayne Batten, expressed his excitement about this significant moment in his boxing career. He stated, "We’ve manifested it for years, so for it to actually happen is just a dream come true." Garner, who once played for Southampton's academy, is eager to make history by potentially becoming the club's first world champion.

Garner's journey has not been without challenges, but his determination has kept him focused on this goal. He reminisced about his early days at St Mary’s, where he first showcased his talent in a 2017 interview. Now, at 28 years old, he aims to solidify his status as a leading contender in the boxing world. While Magnesi is a formidable opponent, Garner remains confident, boasting an impressive record of 19-0 with 10 KOs. He emphasized his mental strength and readiness for the fight, stating, "Nothing really bothers me; nothing really fazes me. I just get in there and do my best work."

As the fight approaches, Garner anticipates a large crowd of 15 to 20 thousand fans cheering him on at St Mary’s. This event not only represents a personal milestone for Garner but also highlights the connection between boxing and the Southampton community. With the support of his fans and the legacy of the club behind him, Garner is ready to seize this moment and chase his dream of becoming a champion.