Blackwater fight night packs a punch

Julie-Ann Carson | 17th June 2009

MORE than 200 supporters packed into the Blackwater PCYC last weekend for some hard-hitting action at the Central Queensland versus South East Queensland Blackwater Boxing Tournament.

The night saw a pair of signed gloves from Joe Bugner auctioned for the sum of $1000. Also included was a signed photograph of Bugner and Muhammed Ali.

In the 12 fights and four exhibition matches the local boys had mixed results.

Jarrod Newson fought well, showing good boxing skills, stopping his opponent at the end of the second round in the 30kg division to pick up the local Junior Fighter award.

Cooper Babington, competing in the 34 kg division, is showing a lot of improvement and was unfortunate not to get the decision in a close fight; but was later awarded the Dennis Nielson Memorial Shield for his effort after giving away two years in age. Corey Huggins gained a lot of experience from his fight; only his fourth outing against a more experienced boxer.

In the first exhibition match, Blake Moore took on Queensland representative Michael Tapes, holding his own against his much taller opponent and proving he will be a force to be reckoned with in the future.

Haiden Taylor, one of Blackwater's more experienced fighters, won his fight after three close rounds and Keegan Freeman proved he is not only a good footballer, but a fighter who can throw on the gloves and mix it with the best in the ring.

Adam Hopes came up against an older, more experienced opponent with the crowd behind him in a very tough and close-fought bout.

Both boxers sought medical advice from the doctor during the match.

Hopes lost his match but was later awarded Best Local Senior Fighter.

Paul McMah fought in the final exhibition match, proving his first outing in the ring won't be his last with a good fight over three rounds.

The main event of the night featured Justin Serio. Fighting in three three-minute rounds, Serio proved too strong for his opponent, finishing the fight in the second round.

Trainers Joel Hopes and Sam Serio were pleased with the outcome of the weekend, thanking the PCYC, YMT Youth Group, supporters and sponsors.

The next outing for the Blackwater club will be at the Wide Bay Titles in Bundaberg.