Borders fighter John could return to the ring in spring

The 31-year-old, who has connections with Galashiels and Melrose, is due in the ring in spring for a warm-up bout, having changed his mind about retiring from the sport and joining the heavyweight division.

He has a new three-year deal with London promoter Mo Prior and his first fight, under the new team, is due on April 11 in the famous York Hall, London.

John is now being trained by Charlie Oliver in Camberley, Surrey, and his contract was witnessed by none other than past football legend Paul ‘Gazza’ Gascoigne.

“The plan is to have two warm-up fights, then go for the Commonwealth title,” explained John.

The ex-international and former unofficial Celtic light heavyweight title holder previously said he would quit the game at the end of 2019 – but later had a “fresh outlook” and decided to continue at a different weight.

He relocated to Surrey and began sparring and training with a number of leading heavyweights – as well as playing rugby to help get his strength up.