Tommy Coyle Set for Ring Return to Support Boxing Clubs

Former Commonwealth lightweight champion Tommy Coyle is preparing to step back into the ring after more than five years away. The Hull native aims to raise funds for boxing clubs in both Hull and Liverpool through a special charity bout.

At 37 years old, Coyle is facing off once again with Derry Mathews, a familiar rival from his professional past. Their fight will take place on December 11, though the exact venue in Hull has yet to be announced.

A Rivalry Revisited

The two first clashed in 2013 at Craven Park in Hull, contesting the Commonwealth title. Mathews secured victory in the tenth round, leaving Coyle eager to rewrite history.

"Who knows what’s going to happen? In round 10, I got knocked out, so let’s just see if I can turn back the clock," Coyle shared. "We’re two old pros that are friends and we’re going to go at it and try and create some memories."

Personal Motivation Behind the Return

Coyle spoke candidly about his late father Chris, who passed away in 2022 and had played a significant role in his career.

"It will be the first fight my dad’s not seen," he said. "It’s sad, but I can’t not do things just because he’s not around anymore. He isn’t coming back and I’ve had to learn to come to terms with that. I’ve really struggled with him not being around; he was my best friend."

For Coyle, this comeback offers a way to focus his energy over the next 12 weeks, giving him something important to pursue.

"If I say I’m doing something, I always do it," he added.

Supporting the Sport and Its Fans

The event promises to benefit boxing fans as well as the local clubs that rely on community support.

Both fighters are using their experience and friendship to bring attention and funds to places where boxing thrives outside the spotlight.