Heaney said a conversation with George Warren, part of Frank Warren’s management team, convinced him he has more to give.

“George Warren phoned me on Sunday night and he told me that whatever happens they’ve got my back, which was a real weight off my shoulders,” he said.

“My dream to be a fighter is still there, so long as I can still look after myself.

“My last two fights have been very tough. I got caught by a good shot on Saturday night.

“But I’ve had 111 fights – 90 as an amateur and 21 as a pro, and I don’t feel it.”

Heaney also says having almost 2,000 fellow Stoke City fans behind him in Manchester was a huge incentive to carry on fighting.

“My supporters deserve it,” he said. “The Stokies have allowed me to achieve my dreams. They’ve been amazing for me.”