IRVINE boxer Ryan Brawley has launched a sensational comeback bid - and he's gunning for title glory.

After a five-year absence from the ring, the former Prizefighter champion is set to lace-up the gloves once more in November after signing a two-year contract with Saltire Boxing.

But Brawley has immediately dashed hopes of an all-Irvine clash with Scottish lightweight champion Ryan Collins.

Brawley, 30, has linked up with coach Joe Affleck for his comeback and has already lost a stone in weight as he aims for a light-welterweight title challenge.

And he believes a crack at the Commonwealth crown is not unrealistic.

Irvine Times:

Speaking exclusively to the Times, Brawley says he and his new trainer have immediately hit the ground running.

"The reason I went back to training was mainly because I was putting on too much weight," he said.

"But it wasn't long until I got the buzz back and the more I was training the more I thought 'I want to fight'.

"I spoke to Joe Affleck about training me and he was right up for it, he's a brilliant coach.

"I've already lost a stone and he's been picking up on mistakes I've been making."

Brawley added: "It's definitely more like a team effort, we've been pals for years and we bounce off each other.

"People are already doubting us. I've had some great support already but there's definitely people who think we'll fail and that's going to drive us on."

Brawley stepped away from boxing after being plagued by persistent knee injuries.

But he says there's been no problems thus far during training, adding: "I've cut out the long-distance running, I was absolutely knackered after the first 5k I ran.

"I had been telling a few people about potentially coming back but after that run I thought 'what have I done?'

"But it's been an unbelievable change since then, Joe's seen the difference in my sharpness. I'm ready to fight right now."

Irvine Times:

Brawley suffered his only defeat in his last pro fight against Stuart Green in January 2011.

And while he welcomes a rematch with the Fifer, Brawley has no interest in fighting Vineburgh hotshot Ryan Collins - who rematches Andrew Mackay for the Scottish strap in November.

Brawley added: "He's absolutely not on my radar. He's a lightweight and I'm coming back at light-welterweight.

"It's not that I wouldn't fight him but there's too much of a difference in weight.

"My goal is to win a title. I honestly believe that a Commonwealth title is not out of my reach.

"I'm working with Colin to try and get some good names and work towards something good.

"Stuart Green is also talking about a comeback so I'd love to get revenge over him."

Brawley continued: "At first the comeback was about self-pride but the kids are now really excited and the thought of bringing them home a belt is what's spurring me on.

"My mum doesn't want anything to do with it though, she's been blanking me when I've been talking about it!

"I actually cannot wait to get back in there and fight."