Stawell’s Jeremy ‘The Answer’ Joiner will jump back into the cage after announcing he will compete in his first fight of the year last week.

Joiner announced he would be defending his mixed martial arts XFC heavyweight title he won last year, fighting Justin Tafa in July.

‘The Answer’ has not fought since November last year, when he recorded his second consecutive loss to end 2017 on a sour note. 

Despite suffering back-to-back losses the close out the year, Joiner said he never considered quitting the sport.

“Retirement never crossed my mind. I took some risks that didn’t work out (in those fights), it happens. I’m not gonna give up after that,” he said.

“I think people forget I’m still in the learning stage, I still have plenty left to give.”

Joiner won the XFC heavyweight title against Chris Lokteff in May last year and he said he is keen to get back and defend it.

“I'm ecstatic to be back I can't wait to step back in the cage,” he said. 

“Defending the title is something I've wanted to do for some time, so I’m very happy to get that chance.” 

“Unfortunately I've be injured – I've been on the sidelines for the past five or six months, and only recently been able to get back into training which has been tough but I love being back.”

Joiner said he has and will continue to do his research about his opponent but his main priority is himself.

“I know a little bit about Justin. I watched a couple of his fights, he's a heavy handed southpaw, and former super heavyweight kickboxing champ,” Joiner said.

“But my focus is purely on myself getting ready after a long stint out and making sure the best version of me goes to Brisbane.”

‘The Answer’ goes into the bout with a professional record of five wins and two losses, while Tafa has just one win from his only professional fight.

Joiner and Tafa will face off on July 28 at Brisbane in the main event of XFC 36.