Ryan Rozicki Set for Comeback October 25 in Sydney, Nova Scotia

After months of recovery from a torn right bicep tendon, Canadian cruiserweight contender Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1-1, 19 KOs) is officially back in training and ready to return to the ring. The hard-hitting Nova Scotia native will headline a homecoming card on October 25 at Centre 200 in Sydney, where he’ll face South African challenger Akani “Prime” Phuzi (14-3, 6 KOs) in a 10-round bout for the vacant WBC Continental Americas Cruiserweight Championship.

The fight marks Rozicki’s first since suffering his injury during a sparring session in April while preparing for a scheduled WBC world title clash against Badou Jack. That bout was set for May 3 in Saudi Arabia, but Rozicki was forced to withdraw after his right tendon snapped mid-punch.

“I was sparring for my fight with Jack,” Rozicki recalled. “I threw a right to the body and heard it pop. I didn’t see the damage until I looked down and saw my bicep pulled up toward my shoulder.”

Despite the setback, Rozicki underwent successful surgery and has since focused on recovery and rebuilding. Now, with a new date in place and a title on the line, the 30-year-old is looking to restart his path toward a long-overdue world title shot.

“After this layoff, I just want to get back in the ring, win this belt in October, and then fight for the world title,” Rozicki said.

Rozicki previously earned the WBC’s No. 1 contender spot over the last two years but saw two ordered fights against Noel Mikaelyan fall apart. His missed opportunity against Jack was the third world title shot lost to circumstances beyond his control. Mikaelyan, who replaced Rozicki on short notice, lost a controversial decision and is currently in talks for a rematch.

Despite the adversity, Rozicki remains highly ranked and recently climbed to No. 4 in Ring Magazine’s cruiserweight ratings, ahead of Jack, Mikaelyan, and Peralta. His promoter, Daniel Otter of Three Lions Promotions, believes Rozicki’s time is coming.

“This could very well be Ryan’s final fight in Cape Breton as he resumes his world title pursuit abroad,” said Otter. “It’s a special opportunity for local fans to witness him live. We’re expecting a packed house.”

Tickets go on sale Friday, July 25 at 10 a.m. ET via Ticketmaster.ca and Centre200.ca.

The Undercard

Also featured on the October 25 card is Canadian Super Middleweight Champion John Michael “JM” Bianco (9-1, 4 KOs), whose opponent will be announced soon. Undefeated Mexican-born prospect Meilyn Sanchez (3-0, 1 KO), now based in Canada, will take on Costa Rica’s Silvia Duan (4-3, 3 KOs) in a six-round super bantamweight contest.

Canadian middleweight Brett Beaton (6-3, 4 KOs) is also slated to appear, with his opponent to be confirmed. Full undercard details are expected in the coming weeks.

Phuzi, who’s determined to derail Rozicki’s comeback, made his intentions clear.

“I have trained my whole life for an opportunity like this,” said the South African challenger. “I’m coming to spoil Rozicki’s plan, take his ranking, and fight for the world title.”

Otter emphasized the significance of the bout, thanking key stakeholders for their support.

“We’re grateful to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, and Alberto Leon for making this event possible and sanctioning the fight,” Otter said. “This is the perfect comeback for Rozicki. Phuzi is no walkover — this will be a real test.”

Rozicki, eager to put the setbacks behind him, is focused solely on victory.

“I’m going to get that WBC World title belt,” he said.