Ryan O’Rourke Craves Homecoming as He Prepares for Fight

Ryan O’Rourke, the rising star in professional boxing, is yearning for a return to his roots as he prepares for his upcoming fight in Huntington, USA. The 26-year-old fighter has built an impressive career, competing in multiple countries, including Spain, Belgium, England, and the United States. However, after years of travelling the globe for bouts, O’Rourke is feeling the pull of home, where he hopes to fight in front of his local fans.

Despite his recent success and a partnership with the American promotion company Star Boxing, O’Rourke finds himself increasingly homesick. He expressed his thoughts during an interview with Irish-Boxing.com, stating, “I’m getting homesick. I want to fight in front of my own crowd and hear that big cheer when I walk out.” His friends and family back in Ireland are eager to support him, but current engagements often place him thousands of kilometres away.

O’Rourke’s desire to return to Ireland is not just about nostalgia; it reflects a growing momentum in the domestic boxing scene. The fighter noted that “there are plenty of fights for the ‘Silent Assassin’ around the weight,” even though he is currently unranked by the Boxing Union of Ireland (BUI). He hopes to secure a couple of fights in Ireland next year, ideally against fellow Irish fighters, to reconnect with the energy of his homeland.

The buildup to his next match is intense, as O’Rourke faces undefeated American boxer Jerome Baxter. This bout is considered one of the toughest challenges of his career and could set the stage for O’Rourke’s desired return to Ireland. “Hopefully it happens soon,” he remarked about the prospect of fighting back home, adding humorously, “They are calling me the globe trotter. But honestly? I’m ready to be home.”

As O’Rourke prepares for his match this weekend, he is focused on delivering a strong performance. His dedication to the sport has taken him far, but the longing for home is becoming increasingly evident. “Just to be home, to feel that energy,” he said, reflecting on what it would mean to fight in Dublin.

With the world of boxing evolving and more opportunities arising domestically, O’Rourke’s ambitions align with the growing interest in local bouts. The Irish boxing community is eager to welcome him back, and the fighter’s commitment to his roots is clear. As he steps into the ring against Baxter, O’Rourke carries not only his aspirations but also the hopes of his supporters back home.