He was scheduled to fight Matt Casboult for the Australian super featherweight title on TGW & Smithy Bring the Big Fights 14 on October 22 but he had to withdraw after contracting influenza A just prior to the bout.
Now it’s been re-scheduled and will take place on November 25 on the undercard of the Kris George vs Cameron Hammond Commonwealth title fight.
“This has definitely been a case of you don’t realise how badly you want something until it’s taken away from you,” Brent Rice said.
“I was shattered to have to withdraw from our original date because of illness.
“I feared I would lose my chance to fight for the Australian title.
“Thankfully my manager Brendon Smith went above and beyond and has been able to re-schedule for November 25.
“I’m also fortunate Matt Casboult’s camp was agreeable to the postponement.
“The cards have fallen my way now I need to make the most of it and I intend on doing just that.
“When I was bedridden with influenza A and unable to train or do anything active it really made me understand how much I wanted the Australian title.
“In a way the illness setback has only made me stronger and my desire to win this belt is even higher.”
Rice is confident the illness setback won’t have a bearing on his preparation.
“No, not at all,” Rice said. “We have no excuses – win, lose or draw my illness setback won’t be a factor.
“I was very fit and ready to go when I got sick, so I just had to rest and recover and build back up slowly.
“It’s been about doing things smart and that’s what we’ve done.
“I’ll be in great shape for November 25. It’s a ten round Australian title fight, i’ll be ready for ten strong rounds.
“I’ve worked really hard for this chance, in many ways I’ve got a second shot at it so I’ve left no stone unturned.
Rice vs Casboult is a matchup of two of the countries rising young stars. Brent Rice is 4-0 with two knock outs. Among his wins the formerly undefeated James Katz and former Australian and OPBF champ Fred Mundraby.
While Matt Casboult is 5-0 with one knock out. In an incredible stat in his other four wins on all judges score cards he’s only lost a total of three rounds.
Casboult and Rice met in the amateurs with Rice winning on a split decision.
“This is a really tough fight, we’re under no illusions there,” Rice said.
“He’s undefeated in five fights and he’s dominated all five of those bouts, he’s a very talented fighter.
“I have huge respect for Matt however I have faith in my ability and believe if I fight to my best – this is a fight I can win.
“This is my chance to win the same Australian title that has been worn by the likes of Will Young.
“When opportunity comes knocking you have to take it with both hands – that’s what I intend on doing.”
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