Mikkel Kessler’s Comeback: Will We Finally See Froch vs Kessler III?

hen Mikkel Kessler announced his return to boxing in May 2017, fans had just one question: will we finally get the trilogy fight with Carl Froch?

The Danish “Viking Warrior” hasn’t boxed since his 2013 rematch loss to Froch, a punishing twelve-rounder that saw the Brit even the score after their first war back in 2010. Kessler officially retired in 2015, citing injuries and the toll of a long career — but, like so many fighters before him, the itch clearly never left.

Why Now?

The usual cynicism greeted the announcement. “He must need the money.” “It’s too late.” “He’s just chasing the glory days.” But for all the talk, Kessler seemed focused and serious. In his own words, it wasn’t about the paydays — it was about proving to himself that he still had it.

That’s often the most dangerous reason for a comeback. Fighters convince themselves they’ve got one last run in them, and sometimes the body betrays the mind. We saw it with Ricky Hatton — back in fantastic shape, emotionally ready, but ultimately unable to recapture the magic. Could Kessler fall into the same trap?

Health Risks and Ring Rust

Kessler’s style has always been physically demanding — he’s a volume puncher with sharp timing, but his career has been plagued by injuries. Hand issues, an eye injury that sidelined him after the Super Six, and over a decade of wars have left their mark.

At nearly 38 years old in 2017, the idea of jumping back into world-level competition is a gamble. The time out of the ring alone — nearly four years — raises questions about sharpness, reflexes, and recovery.

Could Froch Be Tempted Back?

The name on everyone’s lips is Carl Froch. Since the comeback news broke, speculation about Froch vs Kessler III has reignited — especially after Froch himself admitted the news “gave him something to think about.”

They’ve split two classics already. Kessler edged the first in Denmark; Froch returned the favour in front of a raucous O2 Arena. A third meeting was rumoured for years but never materialised — Froch instead went on to settle his rivalry with George Groves in front of 80,000 at Wembley and hasn’t fought since.

Now, with both men in retirement and no promotional ties holding things back, the trilogy is more possible than ever. A light-heavyweight clash has even been floated.

But Should It Happen?

That’s the real question. Both men have been out of the ring for years. Both have had long, brutal careers. And Froch has nothing left to prove — he already avenged his defeat. What would the motivation be, beyond pride and closure?

Boxing fans are divided. Some want to see their story finished. Others fear we’ll be watching a slow, sad echo of two once-great fighters chasing a moment that’s already passed.

Whatever your view, there’s no denying the intrigue. Two of the modern era’s most respected super-middleweights. One win each. A rivalry with unfinished business.

If Froch-Kessler III is ever going to happen, the time is now.

Would you watch it? Let me know in the comments — and don’t forget to explore more on CMBoxing.