Price returns after injury against domestic opposition

Olympic heavyweight bronze medallist David Price will take part in his first fight of 2010 on Friday evening at Leigh Indoor Sports Village after recovering from a hand injury. The Liverpool beanpole has been paired with Heywood’s Martin Grainger in a four-rounder and is hoping to stay injury free following a stop-start first year in the pro ranks.

"David's right hand has been concerning him for some time, but it has now been sorted. I believe that David will hit harder than ever now and is determined to show that he is Britain's best heavyweight prospect. I saw David spar with another one of my hopefuls, Tom Dallas, last year and he showed then that he is for real,” commented Price's promoter, Frank Maloney.

Injury problems, combined with the collapse of Setanta Sports whom Price’s former promoters Hayemaker had a TV deal with, has seen the 6ft8 giant restricted to only four starts since making his pro debut against Dave Ingleby twelve months ago. Now fully fit, Price is now looking forward to climbing the domestic rankings with the guarantee of regular fights under Maloney’s stewardship.

"Last year was up and down because I changed promoters, but Frank Maloney kept me busy and I also had quality sparring with guys like Tom Dallas. I couldn't be any happier than where I am now, I am just itching to get in the ring and fight as often as possible and when I reach double figures I will start thinking of titles,” he confirmed.

Price’s opposition on Friday, Martin Grainger, will enter the ring with a mixed 3-2 record. The Heywood fighter was stopped in his debut against veteran trailhorse Paul Bonson but bounced back with three wins against Jason Callum, Hastings Rasani and Howard Daley. Grainger’s winning run was snapped by undefeated cruiser Jon-Lewis Dickinson on points last time out. He is expected to give away over two stones in weight to Price.

Martin Lindsay’s British featherweight title defence against Jamie Arthur will headline this Frank Maloney promoted show. The packed undercard will include appearances from British flyweight champion Shinny Bayaar, ex-British bantamweight champion Gary Davies, Paul Edwards, Dave Ferguson, Karl Place, Rick Goddins and unbeaten lightweight John Watson.

Tickets are available for £40 and £80 ringside from 0871 226 1508 or www.frankmaloney.com