Froch could fight in outdoor venue

*Carl Froch's Nottingham homecoming might have to be moved to an outdoor venue because of "relentless" interest from fans. *

The two-time WBC super-middleweight champion is fighting in Britain for the first time since 2009.

He returns to the ring after December's defeat by Andre Ward in the Super Six tournament final.

Froch will get the chance to regain his world champion status when he meets unbeaten IBF holder Lucian Bute on May 26.

The fight had been set for the Nottingham Arena, which holds approximately 9,000 people. But promoters Matchroom are now looking at larger, outdoor venues in various cities.

It is rumoured that Notts Couty's Meadow Lane is now the likeliest venue to take on the big fight, despite the boxer being a fan of rival club Nottingham Forest.

Froch's promoter says there is a huge appetite for this boxing bout.

"Fight fans all want to see these two world beaters clash, and I want to make sure as many people as possible get the chance.

"It is important that Carl gets to fight in Nottingham and I am looking at two outdoor venues there.

We are also looking at venues in London and Manchester but we are working with Nottingham City Council to try to keep the fight in Carl's hometown."