Split-decision verdict leaves Newell so flat

Photo: Darren Robinson-

BODY BLOW . . . verdict in the Far East was so hard to take.

Boxing by SIMON SMEDLEY

DISAPPOINTED light heavyweight prospect John Newell has spoken of his frustration after being on the wrong end of a hugely-controversial judges’ decision during his latest appearance for the British Lionhearts.

Royton-based Newell (21) was chosen to represent the Lionhearts again as they travelled to the Far East to take on hosts the China Dragons in Sanya.

However, despite a superb effort against top-quality opponent Yibulayin Abudureyimu in the 81kg category, Newell lost a 2-1 split decision after five gruelling rounds.

Newell said: “To say I was disappointed was an

understatement. The result put a dampener on the trip for me to be honest.

“I thought I’d done enough, and so did lots of other people.

“The BT Sport commentators were going mad at ringside.

“They were saying I’d been robbed. The judge from Korea gave me every round, but the two from Russia and Sweden wouldn’t have it.

“You do get these bad

decisions on foreign trips sometimes, but you just have to get on with it.

“It was a blow, but I know I boxed well and the Lionhearts coaches agreed that I’d put in a great performance.”

The Lionhearts lost the latest World Series of Boxies match 4-1 against the Dragons.

Again it was super heavyweight star Joe Joyce who registered for the visitors as he continued his superb form in the run-up to the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Newell is hoping to be

chosen for either of the Lionhearts’ next two World Series fixtures, at home against the Ukraine Otamans tonight or the Morocco Atlas Lions next Thursday.