The Beaudesert Storm is rolling home, with boxing star Dylan Biggs set to return to the ring on August 30 when he headlines a homecoming showdown against Turkey’s Kenan Guzel at Ipswich Turf Club.
The bout comes after months of uncertainty surrounding a proposed World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver title fight, which was expected to take place in Europe before negotiations stalled.
Biggs’ manager, Brendan Smith, said the team ultimately decided not to wait any longer.
“We chose not to wait any longer because it was going to slow his career,” Smith said.
“Dylan’s 24 years old, rated No.11 in the world, and he doesn’t want to sit on the fence waiting. He wants to keep improving, keep developing and keep working towards that world title.”
Smith said the WBC negotiations had been frustrating, but delays were not uncommon at the highest level of professional boxing.
“It can happen in boxing, but we can’t afford to let it stall Dylan’s career,” he said.
Instead, the focus has shifted to Ipswich, with Smith describing the refurbished Turf Club as an ideal venue that is close to Biggs’ Beaudesert supporters while also attracting fans from Brisbane and Toowoomba.
Biggs admitted the past eight months had tested his patience after an active 2025 campaign.
“It was all signed and we were basically waiting on a flight and an official date,” he said of the proposed overseas bout.
“Then nothing happened. I’m sure this sort of thing happens to everyone at the world level. Everyone says there are a lot of politics in boxing, and I guess this is the politics they’re talking about.”
Despite the disappointment, the 24-year-old said he was excited to finally be fighting on home soil again.
“It’s awesome,” Biggs said.
“To not have a 20-hour flight and be able to fight at home in front of family, friends and supporters is really special.”
While the postponed title opportunity remains in the background, Smith said the team was treating Guzel as a dangerous opponent.
“He’s a world champion in two combat sports and has a very powerful left hook,” Smith said.
“We’re not taking him lightly. Every fight has to be treated like it’s a world title fight.”
Tickets can be purchased from Eventbrite by searching Big Fights 43.
