Ryan Garner to Headline Boxing Match at St Mary’s Stadium
In a significant event for local sports enthusiasts, Ryan Garner is set to headline a boxing match at St Mary’s Stadium in Southampton, his hometown, on June 20. The unbeaten 28-year-old, a former British and European super-featherweight champion, will take on Italian boxer Michael Magnesi for the WBC interim super-featherweight title. Garner, currently ranked third by the WBC, looks to elevate his status as he vies for the opportunity to challenge champion O’Shaquie Foster, who is scheduled for a fight against the second-ranked contender Raymond Ford this summer in Texas.
Garner’s Ambition and Support
For Garner, this bout is more than just a fight—it’s the culmination of a childhood ambition. A lifelong supporter of Southampton FC, he has long expressed a desire to step into the ring at the club’s home ground. Known by the nickname ‘The Piranha’, Garner enters the fight riding a wave of success, having recently claimed the British, Commonwealth, and European titles at two prominent events in Bournemouth last year before vacating them in early 2023.
“This has been a dream of mine, and Frank [Warren] assured me that he would make it a reality, which he has consistently done since I turned professional,” said Garner in a statement. He emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “I believe this will be one of the largest sporting occasions in the city, and I’m proud to have the support of Southampton’s people. While it will be a fantastic atmosphere, I must focus on my formidable opponent to ensure I can continue these opportunities in the future. Winning this title puts the current champion on notice that escape is not an option.”
Supporting Fighters and Promoter’s Remarks
Joining Garner on the fight card is his fellow Southampton native, Lewis Edmondson, who currently holds the British and Commonwealth light-heavyweight titles. Edmondson will face off against Lyndon Arthur, a former European titleholder. He aims to rebound from his first career loss against Daniel Lapin at Wembley Stadium in July. Previously, he secured his Lonsdale Belt with a victory over Dan Azeez in late 2024.
Promoter Frank Warren has been a steadfast supporter of Garner throughout his boxing career. “Putting this special event together at St Mary’s for Ryan is a delight for me personally,” Warren commented. “From his professional debut at 18, Ryan’s potential has always shone through, and I’m grateful to Southampton FC for their assistance in organizing this night. This match represents a crucial step into the big leagues for Ryan, providing him with the chance for more significant fights and memorable nights ahead.”
Historical Significance and Local Boxing Scene
Notably, Garner would become the first individual to headline a boxing event at St Mary’s Stadium and potentially the first boxing world champion from Southampton, should he triumph on June 20. The growth of boxing in the south coast is evident, as seen with Chris Billam-Smith claiming the WBO cruiserweight title at AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium in 2023. A number of fighters from Hampshire are set to join the event, including rising stars Mark Chamberlain and Royston Barney-Smith, further contributing to the area’s burgeoning boxing scene.
