ONE HELL OF A RIDE
HE hasn’t stepped foot in the ring for almost two years but Chris Bradford (pictured) claims he has “unfinished business” as he prepares for one last fight next month.
Bradford will make a comeback to professional combat when he headlines his own show, Prestige Fight Series 4, on October 15.
“I’ve fought for belts, I’ve fought all over the world in rings, cages and I’ve used little gloves but I never got the chance to fight in front of my home crowd,” Bradford said.
“And having a fight against one of the toughest guys in Australia, in Geelong, will complete my career nicely.”
Veteran Bradford, who suffered a split points decision defeat to Steve Behan in November 2014, will challenge well-rounded champion Rob Ferguson.
“Rob stands as one of the toughest pound-for-pound Muay Thai fighters in Australia,” Bradford said.
“He’s able to withstand a ton of punishment. Technically I’m at an advantage but his spirit and will always push him through fights.
“The crowd is going to be in for one hell of a ride when Rob and I step into the ring.”
Bradford (31 fights, 21 wins and eight knockouts) said he was determined to battle a top-quality opponent, eager to finish on a high.
“In my career I always strived to fight the toughest opponents and fighters above me in the rankings,” Bradford said. “I refuse to end my career fighting a nobody. I want to finish my career as someone who fought the best.”
At 39, it is likely to be Bradford’s last bout, but he never says never.
“This training camp I’ve definitely been a lot sorer. The bones are more achy, the body is more brittle and with the way it’s going at the moment this will be the last fight that I do.
“But as a fighter, you’ve always got the fight in your mind. The hunger of fighting and competing is always burning inside and, as far as I’m concerned, I never really did retire.
“But we’ll just have to see how the adrenaline feels after I get my hand raised, hopefully.”