Professional boxing returns to Dublin next month when a new concept for the sport in Ireland will be launched at the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght. No fewer than seven Irish boxers will figure on the programme with the Olympic gold medallist, Michael Carruth, topping the bill in a bout against fellow Irishman Mark Riggs. Also appearing on the bill will be Paul Griffin, Cathal O'Grady, Jim Rock, Paschal Collins and Willie Valentine, who will be making his professional debut.

The bout between Carruth and Canadian-based Riggs will be for the World Athletic Association world welterweight title which is vacant at present.

The promoter of the venture, Dublin businessman Syl McClean, believes that Dublin should have regular professional boxing and it is his intention to put on programmes every three or four months in Tallaght or, alternatively, in The Point Depot.