International Boxing and Black Tie Dinner

England’s Seniors celebrated five wins out of seven as they took on Sweden in a dual international at the Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane this weekend.

Elliot Whale made an impressive England debut, retaining his composure against Sweden’s tough light-welterweight, Shukrat Adihamov. Boxing to instruction, Elliot kept it simple to secure the team’s first win of the night.

Mo Harris Akbar, who recently accepted a place on the GB Boxing squad, was in control throughout his second bout as a senior boxer. His opponent Emile Petterson did well to last three rounds after taking some heavy shots and flurries throughout. 

There was a special thanks to Jerome Campbell and Islington Boxing Club, who stepped in on the morning of the event after Tom Hodgson’s Swedish opponent had to withdraw. Jerome enjoyed the opportunity to represent England internationally and, although Tom comfortably won the bout, there were some surprises from the talented Islington boxer.

Sweden's Agnes Alexsson was a step up for Louise Orton, who competed well in her first round but lost the bout to an experienced international who has medalled at several major tournaments. 

Paige Murney’s 64kg clash against Jelena Jelic provided valuable experience as the England boxer prepares for the Elite Championships next month. The bout was slightly scrappy, but Paige had the edge.

Lewis Richardson showed class in his fourth bout for England in six months. After a close first round, Lewis stepped up a gear and boxed clever, catching his opponent with some eye-catching single shots.

Sparks flew in a highly anticipated grand finale between Jordan Reynolds - who also recently joined the GB Boxing programme - and Oliver Flodin, until the bout was stopped due to a clash of heads, disappointing spectators but sealing England’s sixth win of the evening. 

The Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane has hosted this annual event for 18 years. 

Results are as follows:

57-60kg Agnes Alexusson (Sweden) beat Louise Orton (England) 5:0

60kg Thomas Hodgson (England) beat Jerome Campbell (England) 5:0

64kg Elliot Whale (England) beat Shukrat Adihamov (Sweden) RSC3

64kg Paige Murney (England) beat Jelena Jelic (Sweden) 5:0

69kg Mo Harris Akbar (England) beat Emile Petterson (Sweden) 5:0

75kg Lewis Richardson (England) beat Abdesslam Chabi (Sweden) 5:0

75kg Jordan Reynolds (England) beat Oliver Flodin (Sweden) 4:1

England’s team were supported by coaches Mick Driscoll, Amanda Coulson and Ben Stewart.

Sweden were supported by Nigel Davies and Tonton Semakala.

As well as raising substantial funds for local charities,provides a great event for amatuer boxing and very enjoyable eveningfor boxers and spectators alike.