It was an exciting week for VIP Boxing as they announced Josh Warrington as the latest addition to their board of directors. This was followed by an electrifying night of boxing in association with Trinity Entertainment at Liverpool’s Grand Central Hall on Saturday night. Commentators included Sam Maxwell and Steve Lillis.
The night of championship boxing was headlined by Jake Harrison and Logan Richardson in the bantamweight division for the Central Area title.
The undercard saw the VIP stable in some competitive fights starting with Connor Goulding’s sixth professional fight following five victories. His opponent, Serge Ambomo was not an easy night’s work, he was determined to bank the rounds and win the fight.
Goulding displayed some great boxing skills, keeping it long and landing some good work behind his jab. Connor buckled down, but after six rounds of boxing the judges scored the points decision in favour of the away fighter who was thrilled to have earned his thirteenth win.
Bryan Collins contended against Leeds fighter, Joe Hardy. The super welterweight dust-up saw both fighters’ toe-to-toe and Collins landing some beautiful combinations in the opening rounds. Hardy struggled to answer back with anything effective at the pace Collins had set. He appeared to be looking for the big shots, but just couldn’t seem to find them. After what was arguably a career best performance from Collins, his glove was raised as he secured the win.
This was followed by Ben Burnham’s first 6 round clash against Iranian former Olympian, Bahadur Karami. The pair went toe-to-toe and showed immense heart and grit as the two traded leather. However, after six competitive rounds Burnham secured the victory. A great result for Burnham who hopes to chase a title at the latter end of the year.
Next, Nathan Quarless, the nephew of leading 1980s Heavyweight, Noel Quarless returned to the ring. His opponent Perry ‘The promise’ Howe tried to be elusive and awkward, but Nathan soon pinned him down, dominating the fight, resulting in an unquestionable win. Quarless picked up an injury during the fight, forcing him to battle on with three rounds left to go.
After a thrilling undercard, the ten-round main event kicked off. Logan Richardson was welcomed to the ring with a standing ovation from Hull fans, wearing Mike Tyson inspired understated black shorts. Liverpool’s very own Jake Harrison was also cheered on by supportive fans, but the Hull massive certainly gave them a run for their money. Everything was to fight for, with both fighters having an undefeated record, but someone’s 0 had to go.
After a competitive first round, Harrison remained calm and composed. Richardson was however warming into the fight and continued to let his hands go landing a series of powerful and effective body shots and uppercuts. The challenger unquestionably brought the fight out of slick southpaw, Harrison. Although he had less experience as a professional, Richardson proved that he was fighting at the right level. The fight advanced in action as the rounds progressed and if you blinked, you would have missed a punch.
Round four proved exactly this when the champion hit the canvas for the first time in his professional career as Richardson landed a mean overhand right. It was obvious that Richardson had bad intentions and sought a KO. The crowd were on their feet, as Harrison after a four second count managed to make it back onto his. With only 10 seconds to spare of the round and Richardson continuing to press the pace, Harrison was saved by the bell.
However, a couple minutes into round 5, Richardson closed the show with a destructive and ruthless left hook which left Harrison on the canvas and unable to recover. A major upset for Harrison who managed to stop his former opponent Jack Dwyer in just three rounds.
It just wasn’t Harrison’s night and Richardson, who is now the Central Area title holder after just 5 fights certainly made a statement that he is one to watch in the Bantamweight division. Harrison made a solid attempt and will undoubtedly come back stronger.
Both fighters delivered a riveting show from start to finish and proved that it is true what they say – in boxing expect the unexpected!
VIP Boxing will be back in Liverpool’s Grand Central Hall for another energetic night of boxing on April 27th. Tickets are on sale now.
Jadene Richards
@jadeneangela @6181boxing
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