Nick Ball handed big world title opportunity despite huge loss earlier this year

Anthony Cacace is set for a huge homecoming later this year after his world title defence against Nick Ball was officially announced. 

The Belfast man will put his WBA super-featherweight title on the line against the former featherweight champion at the SSE Arena in Belfast on December 19. 

Cacace became a two-time world champion earlier this year when he defeated Jazza Dickens on points in Dublin to claim the WBA crown. 

That win continued an impressive run for the 37-year-old, who has enjoyed a remarkable late surge in his career after previously holding the IBF title at 130lbs. 

His next assignment will come against Ball, who is stepping up in weight as he looks to become a world champion in a second division. 

The Liverpool fighter lost his WBA featherweight belt earlier this year when he was stopped by Brandon Figueroa in the final round of their February clash. 

Before that setback, Ball had established himself as one of Britain’s most exciting fighters, winning the title against Raymond Ford after previously being held to a draw by Rey Vargas. 

Cacace has not boxed in Belfast since 2023, but he will now return home as world champion for what could be a major night in the city. 

With Ball expected to bring his usual energy and aggression, Cacace could be set for one of the toughest tests of his reign.