Memory of grandad inspires Neale's return

And the unbeaten Leigh Park man is targeting titles in 2019 as he steps back into the ring next Saturday.

Neale aims to shake off the ring rust after a four-year absence from the sport as he takes on Liam Richards in Bournemouth.

The 29-year-old will box at lightweight after losing three stone across seven weeks in a relentless training programme, with a move to super-featherweight a future goal.

And the 8-0 man has told how he's determined to make the most of the comeback in his grandad Teddy's name.

Neale said: '˜I've still got the bug.

'˜I wasn't quite finished when I retired, to be honest, but a lot was happening and I couldn't commit to the training and the sport in general.

'˜But my grandad passed away two years ago and it got mentioned at the funeral he was my biggest fan.

'˜His friends were coming over and asking about the boxing and told me how proud he was of me.

'˜It gave me the motivation to get back involved again.

'˜Things are getting easier with my work, marriage, children and life in general and then I got offered some sponsorship by Brown's Gym and Capital Homes to help me train.

'˜It's a great opportunity for me '“ and I'm going to take it with both hands.'

Neale has linked up with new trainer Miles Harding and pads specialist James Lee with Michael Ballingall remaining his manager '“ with the target title success.

He added: '˜My grandad's dream was for me to be Southern Area champion '“ and it's achievable.

'˜I've sold every ticket I've been allocated so will have a good following.

'˜I want two or three fights before the end of the year

'˜I want to be looking at a title shot by next April. That's my aim. I don't see why I can't get among the domestic titles.'