Undefeated Australasian Light Heavyweight Champion Owen “Bomber” Corrigan returns to action on August 28 when Dragon Fire Boxing brings the 55th edition of the iconic Thunderdome series to Metro City Arena in Perth, Western Australia.
Originally scheduled to face Cole Smith, Corrigan has had to navigate several opponent changes throughout his training camp after injuries affected multiple fighters in the lead-up to the event. Now, with fight week finally here, the undefeated champion will square off against battle-hardened Fijian Paolo Ratumaikoro in what many believe could be an even tougher assignment.
Ratumaikoro enters the contest fresh from a controversial split-decision loss to Abdul Abdulrahman (16-2) in a fight many regarded as one of the most entertaining contests of the year. A proven warrior, Ratumaikoro is no stranger to taking on elite opposition, having shared the ring with the likes of undefeated prospect Omar El-Abdallah, Kirra Ruston, Donald Jones, and Benjamin Hussein.
For Corrigan, however, the late opponent switch has done little to disrupt his preparations.
“Training has been brilliant at the Dragon Fire Boxing Gym with Angelo Hyder and Tony Nobbs, home to current and former world champions Andrew and Jason Moloney,” said Corrigan.
While some fighters would be frustrated by another change of opponent, the man known as “Bomber” sees the matchup as an opportunity.
“Yeah, I actually reckon this is a tougher opponent than the original opponent. Nothing against Cole, but stylistically, I think this is by far a more fascinating fixture. When our styles clash, it has all the potential to be an absolute war!”
The bout comes at a significant stage in Corrigan’s career. Fresh off breaking into the Australian Top 15 rankings, the undefeated champion has established himself as one of the rising contenders in a highly competitive light heavyweight division.
Yet Corrigan has no intention of becoming comfortable.
“Yeah, delighted to be in the Top 15 amongst a strong division. There are no weak points in there. I do feel we have bigger milestones to achieve soon!”
Those comments underline the mindset that has carried Corrigan to an unbeaten record and an Australasian title. The ranking is a milestone, but not the destination.
Despite the intensity of fight week, Corrigan has nothing but respect for the man standing across from him.
“No trash talk to be given to my opponent. He saved the bacon by jumping in at the last minute. However, I do have a job to do, so respect will be shown after the fight.”
“MY FANS ARE MY ARMY”
While his focus remains firmly on the task ahead, Corrigan is quick to acknowledge the support network that has helped fuel his rise through the ranks.
“Message to the fans: I love them all and appreciate all the sacrifices they make to come to my fights. You need an army to go to war, and they are my army!”
With an undefeated record, the Australasian Light Heavyweight Championship around his waist, and a newly earned Australian Top 15 ranking, Owen “Bomber” Corrigan enters Thunderdome 55 carrying plenty of momentum.
Now comes another stern test against a rugged and proven opponent who has built a reputation for taking on all comers.
One thing is certain: when Corrigan and Ratumaikoro meet under the lights at Metro City Arena on August 28, neither man is expected to take a backward step.
The result could be an all-out war.
THUNDERDOME 55 — AUGUST 28
Dragon Fire Boxing returns to Metro City Arena in Perth, Western Australia, on August 28 for another massive night of professional boxing action.
Tickets: Megatix Australia
Live Broadcast: Live Combat Sports
