‘Redemption day’ for Ryan, Prest seeks to avenge defeat

Since losing the biggest fight of his career, Gunnedah’s Wade Ryan has only been thinking about “redemption”.

His unanimous decision defeat to Ireland’s Dennis Hogan in what was a 12 round war in Brisbane “wasn’t a true representation” of Wade’s ability.

He spoke to the Gunnedah Times about the loss in March and his renewed enthusiasm.

“I feel as though the last fight wasn’t a true representation of myself, and what I’m about,” Ryan said.

“This is redemption day for me and I need to get back to where I need to be and get my shot at a world title.

“I’m excited for this fight, to represent all of Gunnedah and my people. I’m looking forward to it and it’s going to be a good night.”

Ryan will be facing a similar foe on November 23, Koen Mazoudier. He beat the 27-year-old Sydneysider early last year via a 10th round knockout at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Similar to what Ryan has done throughout his career, the 32-year-old will be entering enemy territory, and taking on Mazoudier in his backyard at the ICC in Sydney.

Heading into what will be his second rematch in the past two years, Ryan was asked whether he needs to add something new to his arsenal, saying his team is ready for anything.

“We’ve got our fight plan, our plan B and our plan C, and we’ve been heading down to Sydney for some good sparring,” Ryan said.

“I’m excited to be back. It’s been a good long break and we’ve been working quietly behind the scene on different things.

“Spike and Toddy Makelim have been working on a few different variations with me, and different approaches to things and it’s looking like it will all come together on fight night.”

Meantime, Ryan’s wife Enja is facing her own challenge this Saturday when she rematches Jamie Edenden for the Australia and Australasian female welterweight titles.

Despite losing out in a close decision in June, similar to Ryan, Enja has been working hard in the background, travelling to Sydney to train with some of the best fighters in the state.

Enja’s bout on Saturday is a great opportunity for the 31-year-old to return to the winner’s circle and claim two national titles.