Double delight in quarter-finals of national tournament for Newark Amateur Boxing Club

Newark Amateur Boxing Club enjoyed a week of celebrations after Sam Hardy and Alfie Briggs-Price reached the semi-finals of a national tournament.

Friday was particularly busy for Newark ABC, based at Suggy’s Gym, with Bailey Sugden fighting for the ISKA world title on the same night, meaning the corner team had to split up to look after boxers and kickboxers alike.

Though, it didn’t effect Hardy who was in dominant form in Leicester against Travis Dunwell, a game opponent from Bracebridge ABC.

The Newark boxer forced a standing eight count in the second round before continuing to dominate the third to win by unanimous decision, which took him through to the National Quarter Final.

He was immediately followed by Alfie Briggs-Price who, after a slow start, took control of the pace of the bout with long and strong combinations.

Up against Noah Burton with a record of 12-0, Briggs-Price nevertheless always looked in charge and, after winning the East Midlands Vest by unanimous decision, he too was through to the National Quarter-Final alongside his team-mate Sam.

The two Newark amateurs were back on it later in the weekend, again in Leicester, representing the East Midlands against Yorkshire/North West champions on Sunday.

Hardy was due to compete against John Lee Varey, from Purge ABC, who turned up to the weigh-ins prepared to box two-time national champion and finalist last year, but he was not allowed to box as there was a problem with his boxing card.

Hardy stayed to support his Newark ABC club-mate who was up against the talented Isaac Diesa May, from Moss Side Fire, in Manchester.

Diesa came out firing, putting Alfie under pressure, but Alfie soon got into his rhythm and the first round saw him getting the upper hand and just nicking the round.

After a competitive second round, Alfie again finished the stronger of the pair.

In the third round Alfie had his opponent stumbling following quick body shots on the inside, leaving the Newark team confident of getting the nod, which they did.

“For Alfie, this is the furthest he has ever got in the National Championships,” said head coach Dean Sugden.

“Now he and Sam will both be heading down to Guildford next weekend to box in the national semi-finals and finals.

“Everyone says momentum is important in boxing — well, these two have got just that with emphatic performances.”

The next round will take place this weekend at Guildford Spectrum in Surrey.

They will be broadcast live on YouTube by England Boxing. Times are yet to be confirmed.

Head to Suggy’s Gym on Facebook for more information.