Muhammad Ali claimed one of his best victories yet as he beat Aaron Hubery (Shildon ABC) in his first open-class bout.
The 17-year-old from Keighley beat his opponent – who was older by several years – on a unanimous points decision in a fantastic contest that won best fight of the night at the Sharky’s ABC show in Harehills.
Ali, who is hoping to make the Great Britain squad for next year’s European Championships, was competing in his first three-minute three-round contest.
And the Bury Amateur Boxing Club fighter didn’t disappoint the 70-strong contingent from Keighley who went to support him.
His trainer Mike Jelley said: “I was really impressed. I thought he was going to struggle a bit, having not done three three-minute rounds before. But he trained so hard and his quality shone through.”
There was little between the pair after the first round before Ali began to move around the ring more in the second and score points from a longer range.
Ali tired in the final round but still landed enough quality shots to earn the verdict.
Jelley added: “The referee and the judges all said what a fantastic contest it was – boxing at its best.
“It’s great to hear that from people who have been in the sport a long time.”
Ali’s dad Shahid Saleem said: “It was a great win as his opponent has beaten world youth champion Olly Simpson at his home show.
“Ali was really thankful to everyone who came out and supported him.”
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