JOHNNY FISHER will start his comeback against late replacement opponent Ivan Balaz.
The popular 26-year-old Romford Bull was violently beaten by another fan favourite in Dave Allen in May.
The Essex face swapped trainer Mark Tibbs for Tony Sims in the aftermath of the crushing loss.
And now he heads to tax haven gambling mecca Monaco for a high stakes return.
The 15-1 history graduate was scheduled to face dangerous KO artist Herbert Motavu from Uganda.
But a late switch means he is now up against the 7-0 Slovakian.
A Matchroom Boxing source confirmed to SunSport that Matovu – who has boxed across Africa and in Russia and Japan – had visa issues for Monaco.
Heavyweight prospect Fisher was brutally face-planted by fellow fan favourite Allen in the fifth round of their August clash at the Copper Box Arena.
And the loss prompted him to end his previously successful working relationship with Tibbs and seek new guidance.
Upon leaving his long-time coach, he said: “After an amazing 5 years with Mark Tibbs, it’s time for some fresh challenges in my boxing career.
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“A new gym and a new trainer to help take me forward.
“I will always be grateful for everything I learnt from Mark.
“Mark and Jimmy will always hold a special place for me.
“Looking forward to training in the new gym and starting a new chapter in my young boxing career.”
Fisher is over the moon to be under the tutelage of world-class coach Sims.
He said: “I’ve always had a respect for Tony and all the boys who train here.
“You got Jimmy [Sains] and George [Liddard], and Conor Benn.
“Some great names before, John Ryder is still here.
“To be among those names and to be involved with it, I know I’m going to get pushed very hard.”
