Rankin aims to inspire as she chases redemption in the ring

Hannah Rankin is on the comeback trail when she fights Eva Bajic this weekend.

Hannah Rankin is looking for redemption on Saturday night as she makes a return to action after losing her world title in November.

The 29-year-old from Luss, by Loch Lomond, takes on former world champion Eva Bajic in Paisley as she begins her quest to regain her crown.

Rankin made history when she became Scotland’s first female world champion last June but after losing her first title defence in Malta three months ago, she says there’s an extra edge to her preparations this time around.

She admits to taking little down time over Christmas and New year as she put in the hours training. And Rankin’s time isn’t just spent perfecting her own skills in the ring.

A classically trained musician, she plays the bassoon in a quintet and teaches music to children. She’s also on a mission to get more women and girls involved in boxing and gives lunchtime lessons on the basics of the sport.

Though keen to grow the sport and inspire others, Rankin’s current focus is fully on regaining her world title. A narrow loss last time still stings and she aims to take the first steps on the road to redemption this weekend.