Newell’s title pride

MOMENT TO SAVOUR . . . John Newell celebrates his ABA victory.

BOXING: JUBILANT Royton boxer John Newell got his hands on the ABA junior title yesterday with a barnstorming victory over Andre Rhone at the Barnsley Metropolitan complex.

Newell, of Shannon and Ancoats gym, was leading 10-4 when the 75kg category bout was stopped.

The 6ft 3in orthodox fighter had been 5-1 up at the end of the first round and 10-4 at the conclusion of the second.

A mighty left hook saw the referee halt proceedings just seconds into the third.

Said John: “I am over the moon to have won the title.

“I was a bit nervous coming into it, but also very focussed on the task.

“There was a really big crowd and that spurred me on.

“It’s a motivation to produce your best boxing.

“I was on top and then I managed to catch him with a left hook, and after that the referee had seen enough.”

Proud dad Tony added: “We are so pleased John managed to do well and win.

“He is a good lad who works very hard to achieve his goals so he deserves the recognition that comes with this title.

“Ricky Hatton has been keeping a close eye on his progress.

“Hopefully, he will get to go and train at his new gym in Hyde.

“John has proved again what he is capable of by going in there and producing an assured performance.”