DARREN Rigg is returning to the octagon after a five-year absence in memory of his friend Joe Emmons.

And the 46-year-old from Southend admits it will be an emotional moment when he fights at Garon Park at a night remembering Emmons, who was found dead at his home last November.

But he is determined to raise money for his mate’s family when he fights Darren Vallence in an 80kg bout on Saturday.

“I’m really only doing this for Joe, otherwise I would not be fighting,” said Rigg.

“At the end of the day I was not fighting at all and never dreamt of fighting again but I felt the only way I could show my respect for Joe was to have one more fight for him.

“It will be an emotional night but it will be worth it for Joe and to raise money for his family.”

Rigg has been training three or four times a week at the TSG gym in Westcliff with coaches Dan Burzotta and Tom Sloan to prepare for the fight.

His only MMA fight was five years ago on one of Burzotta’s Ultimate Warrior Challenge promotions at Garon Park.

Echo:

Back in the ring – Darren Rigg (right) with TSG’s Tom Sloan who has been getting him back in shape . Picture: ANNA LUKALA

“It’s going to be hard because I have not had any fights for a long time and I was nothing special when I did,” joked Rigg.

“But I spoke to Dan after Joe died and said I wanted to fight one last time for Joe.

“Dan and Tom have been fantastic, training me free of charge.”

Rigg, who is head doorman at Southend’s Varsity bar, has received sponsorship from Varsity and TW Transport to fight.

Varsity also held a bucket collection and a raffle with all proceeds going to the family of dad-of-four Emmons.

“I just want to say thank you to everyone who has helped me and donated,” added Rigg.

“I also wanted to raise some money for his wife Donna and his family.”