JAMIE Cox’s December comeback has been put back two months after the 2006 Commonwealth Games gold medallist tore a muscle in his shoulder.

The 28-year-old was set to make his long awaited return to the ring on Saturday, December 6 at the Oasis Leisure Centre, but the injury has meant his team have moved the date to January 31 at the same venue.

The former Commonwealth light-middleweight champion is now back in training following the injury, but has been restricted with what he is able to do.

Former Walcot amateur Cox, who last fought in June 2013, is set to begin full training shortly.

“It was frustrating,” Cox said. “I was working hard and then I tore the scapula muscle and that meant I had to put my comeback on hold.

“I’ve got a new date now on January 31 and I can’t wait. I have been working hard on my fitness and we are looking at fighting for an inter-continental title from one of the four main governing bodies (WBC, WBA, WBO, IBF).”

Cox’s trainer John Costello has been delighted with the commitment that southpaw has shown.

After setting up a gym in Swindon during his lay-off of more than a year, Cox is now training twice day away from home.

“Jamie is splitting his time between Birmingham and Manchester training twice a day most days – that is how much he wants it,” the trainer said.

“I have never seen Jamie so hungry and now that he has managed to put the politics behind him, he is concentrating on fighting.”

With Cox finally set for his return, his trainer says the boxer, who is undefeated in 17 contests, will remain in the light-middleweight (154lbs) division.

“Jamie is comfortable at 154 and 160 (middleweight), but he is most dangerous at 154lbs,” Costello said.

“At 154lbs, on the world stage, that is where the best opportunities are and, domestically, there isn’t a better light-middleweight out there.”

Meanwhile, tickets for Cox’s former Walcot club mate Ryan Martin’s December 5 fight in Bristol are now available.

The 20-year-old welterweight will be aiming to maintain his unbeaten start to the pro ranks at the City Academy Sports Centre when his fights on the undercard of Lee Haskins’ international bantamweight bout with Mexican Willy Velazquez.

Tickets are £35 and £60, while his manager and promoter Keith Mayo is also putting on a coach priced £10.

For more information contact Mayo on 07789 890453.