Former world champion obtains fight licence

Cambuslang boxing star Scott Harrison is set for a return to the ring – for the first time in six years.

The 41-year-old two-time WBO featherweight champion is planning a big comeback in November after being granted a professional boxing licence last week.

Harrison received his licence from the British and Irish Boxing Authority, having been rejected by the British Board of Boxing Control days before.

A legal battle was due to begin as Harrison threatened the British Board of Boxing Control with court action, however he is now fully focused on his boxing return.

Harrison said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to get my boxing licence back from the British and Irish Boxing Authority. The BIBA organisation have been brilliant.”

Gianluca Di Caro, CEO and executive vice-president of the British and Irish Boxing Authority, confirmed that the licence had been granted.

He said: “Unlike the British Board of Boxing, we abide by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

“We shouldn’t be turning people down because they committed a crime.

“The licence allows Scott to fight in the UK and anywhere in the world. Promoters will be meeting to discuss Scott’s next move.”

Harrison immediately returned to training this summer after serving time in prison for an assault conviction.

His first bout is expected to take place in Glasgow before the end of the year.

Harrison tweeted the news to followers, posting: “Glad to announce I now have a boxing license. Thanks to BIBA and Luca Di Caro. I will fight in November in Glasgow. Details will follow soon.”

It will be Harrison’s first fight in his hometown since he defeated Joe Elfidh on points at the city’s SECC in 2012.

Harrison was furious at the snub by the British Board of Boxing Control, branding them “corrupt” and “hypocrites” over alleged broken promises.

He claimed they had previously told him he would be granted permission to box following his release from prison.

Harrison served three years of a four-year sentence after being found guilty of assault in a Spanish nightclub in 2012.