Heaney will retire if Stoke City fight is not made

Nathan Heaney has been promoted by Frank Warren since 2020

Former British middleweight champion Nathan Heaney says his upcoming fight will be his last if he cannot secure a future bout at Stoke City's bet365 Stadium.

The 34-year-old takes on Grant Dennis at the King's Hall in Stoke on Saturday in a 'must win' fight and the first in his home city for five years.

It has been a long-held dream for 'The Hitman' to finish his career at the home of his favourite football team and he says even if he beats Dennis it might be the last time he steps into a ring.

"I've always envisioned retiring from boxing on my terms. I never envisioned retiring after a loss," he told BBC Radio Stoke.

"So, for me, I would want to win and then have the option to retire on my terms."

Heaney is promoted by Frank Warren and knows Saturday's show is another chance to prove his popularity in his own backyard is a strong as ever.

"It sold out immediately - I could've sold it four times over," Heaney said.

"So win and it will remind Frank Warren why he signed me all those years ago

"The only fight I will have after Saturday is a fight at Stoke City in a year's time. No fight in between.

"I get why they would want you to fight in between - to stay relevant - but I've explained that doesn't matter. It would be the biggest sporting event our city's ever seen outside of football.

"Saturday is my last ever fight if I can't get the stadium."

Heaney, who has won 18 of his 21 fights, says it is "strange" to be talking about retirement but knows his hand will be forced if a date at the home of the Potters cannot be finalised.

"Make no mistake, the plan is to win on Saturday and to have that final push to give the city what it deserves," he said.

"We've filled up every area we've ever been to for the last five years, it's outrageous.

"I deserve it. I love fighting for Frank so, best case scenario, we fight next year at the ground.

"Worst case, I win and say 'thank you' and go out into the King's Hall and take one final bout."

'Make it an absolute bear pit'

Heaney comes into Saturday's showdown with Dennis off the back of two defeats - a seventh-round stoppage against Sofiane Khati in February followed losing his British title to Brad Pauls just over a year ago.

His young daughter will be among the sell-out crowd on Saturday which makes Heaney feel "like I've got to win".

"I can't lose in front of my daughter. But I want her to feel that atmosphere," he said.

A key part of that will be his trademark ring walk to the sound of the Tom Jones' classic Delilah.

Heaney wants the fans to savour the atmosphere as much as possible.

"It will mean everything," he said.

"Enjoy it like it's the last night. Sing it like it's the last Delilah. Make it an absolute bear pit. Make it intimidating and like nothing he's [Dennis] experienced before.

"And hopefully I will do the rest."