Robbie planning ring return in May

Unbeaten Edinburgh boxer Robbie Graham is ready to get his career back on track after a difficult year since voluntarily giving up his Scottish welterweight title last March.

Graham, from Craigmillar, believes he could be facing Paul Deas for the title subsequently vacated again by the injured Ben Barlett (broken hand) as soon as May.

And the fight could even be in Edinburgh.

Robbie insists a diagnosis of bipolar disorder need be no impediment to a ring return given the prescribed therapy treatment:

He said: “I have been told by promoter Sam Kynoch that a May fight is on the cards and it is not out of the question it could take place in my home city.

“Why not? I have travelled throughout Scotland for fights in my career so far.”

Family bereavements and a relationship break-up also contributed to a year of misfortune for Robbie who now looks ahead with optimism.

“The ball is rolling again for me and as well as road runs I have been working out at Meadowbank.

“I have the utmost respect for Paul Deas but provided I keep my head and retain composure he will be in for a tough fight.”