It’s the last dance for Brum warrior Baker

Baker, Fiaz and Hearn are all smiles at the press conference

THE remarkable career of Birmingham gladiator Kane Baker is one fight away from being done and dusted.

The tattooed, battled scarred former Midlands champ – a man with the kind of tough, chiselled feature made for Peaky Blinders – will have his final fling on Matchroom’s huge June 22 card at Resorts World.

Baker announced it was over at yesterday (Thursday’s) press conference at Birmingham’s Grand Hotel, held to unveil the super-show that will be streamed on DAZN. He will bow out against Oldham junior-lightweight prospect Aqib Fiaz who outpointed him over eight rounds in 2020.

For Baker, one of the game’s larger than life characters, the numbers add up. Aged 33, it will be his 33rd professional outing (19 wins, two draws) in an eight year career.

I’m not a fan of fighters announcing their retirement BEFORE a contest, but can’t begrudge fearless Baker a last performance on a major event in a cavernous arena. He will exit boxing on a high, regardless of the result.

The decision has only fuelled his desire for victory. He wants to go out on a win.

“I’m saving the last dance for the best,” he told yesterday’s gathering.

I have a lot of time for Baker, an immensely likeable individual, and hope he remains in the sport.

An avid fight fan, he entered the pro game without fanfare and seemed destined to slide into the journeyman role.

Yet heart and dedication saw him achieve things that were probably beyond even his wildest dreams.  

Baker captured a Midlands title at lightweight, came within a whisker of becoming English champ, boxed in Jeddah, faced the best and appeared on a string of TV shows. He has always given his all.

From a troubled background, he is a shining example of the good boxing can do and has gained respect throughout the business.

At the press conference, Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn made his admiration for Kane clear.

Baker said: “I’m absolutely honoured to be on this bill. It’s my last one and what a platform. I couldn’t have prayed for a better venue. I’m honoured to retire on such a platform.

“I’m 33, it’s my 33rd fight. I’ve done things I didn’t dare dream of. I’ve inspired younger generations. I’ve shown that if you work hard you can do it, it will come.”

He is already planning for the future and drew laughter by admitting: “I cancelled a job interview this morning. I don’t know if they’ll still want me.”

Opponent Khan was in no mood to join the back-slapping. He said simply: “I’m going to put it all on the line, too, and mine will be more than his.”

Kane has made the right decision and can walk away with head held high.

The majority of pros crave what he’s achieved. It’s akin to a non league footballer gaining a place in Manchester City’s first team through belief and graft.