It was just September last year when Corey Nelson announced his retirement following a submission loss to former UFC fighter Manuel Rodriguez at AFC 14 (video), stating that the fire had gone out.
Now, however, the Sydney based welterweight, who was for a number of years considered to be one of the best unsigned talents in Australia, will make his comeback to the sport on the upcoming Superfight 3 card in Western Sydney.
“I’m just really enjoying training at the moment, like I’ve always enjoyed it and that’s why I continued to train as I was retired.” Nelson told Fight News Australia. “I just think now I’m enjoying it more so because I’m achieving my goals I set years ago outside of fighting.”
While Nelson is now ticking off goals outside of fighting, as far as his career inside the cage is concerned, the Sydney native reveals his objectives have changed.
“My goals have changed in the sport as I’m not to fussed anymore about making it to the “big time”, I couldn’t care now if I do or don’t. I’m just doing this fight to have fun and to get my reward for enjoying training which is the win on June 24th.”
Standing in his way of a triumphant return in front of his home crowd will be Strikeforce Auckland trained Beau Rawiri. The welterweight pairing will serve as the show’s main attraction and will be for the promotion’s debut championship title.
“Ruthless” earned his title spot opposite Nelson by outpointing David Francis at the promotion’s second offering in February. The Kiwi also holds recent wins over Ryan Barry and Regan Wyllie.
“I think Beau is tough because I know Dave (Francis) can hit hard but I don’t think Beau has the tools to beat me at all, and especially in front of a packed home crowd! I’ve got shit loads of people pumped about me fighting local and are excited to come watch me fight on Superfight.”
Superfight 3 takes place on June 24th at Club Punchbowl.