Three-time super-middleweight world champion Mikkel Kessler is set to make his return to the professional scene next month, almost 12 years after his retirement, and former 168lb rival Carl Froch has offered his thoughts on the comeback of ‘The Viking Warrior’.
Kessler boxed in one of the most competitive super-middleweight eras since it’s introduction in the 1980’s, facing off with legends such as Joe Calzaghe, Andre Ward and twice against Froch during his time in the ring.
The Copenhagen-born star trumped Froch in their initial encounter in 2010, overcoming ‘The Cobra’ on home soil in Denmark to dethrone the Briton and get his hands on the WBC super-middleweight tiitle.
Although, the tables were turned three years later, as Froch avenged his defeat with a unanimous-decision of his own to simultaneously defend his IBF belt and capture Kessler’s WBA crown.
That looked set to be the final outing of Kessler’s impressive career – despite rumours of a ring return in 2017 and 2018 – but it has now been confirmed that the Dane, who boasts a pro record of 46-3 (35 KOs), will headline an MF Pro card in Bronby, tasked with Bernard Joseph, 12-4-1 (5 KOs).
Speaking on the Froch on Fighting YouTube channel, Froch admitted that he would rather not see Kessler, whom has become his good friend since hanging up the gloves, return to action as a 47-year-old.
“He is fit, he is strong and he is healthy, but he is 47 years old! Why is he coming back? I hope it’s not for the old bunsen-burner [money]. What is the point in fighting if you are not getting paid well?
“Maybe he didn’t want to leave the boxing game on a loss. His last fight was against me and he went the distance, he did himself proud, he lost on points and it was a great fight.
“Because I’ve not really spoken to him [recently], I can’t talk on his behalf but I would rather not see him back in a professional boxing ring at 47 years old, but all the best to him. Good luck!”
Kessler-Joseph will take place on Saturday, November 28, and will be available to watch live on DAZN.
