James BovingtonKeevah Render, 13, from East Leeds’ Cross Gates, is celebrating a European title win after a standout performance at the Hitman show held at Testbed in Hunslet. She trains at Bad Company gym alongside fellow 13-year-old Cole Chapman from Bramley, who also took home a European belt in his weight class.
“Keevah qualified for the ICO belt fight having won a gold in Verona where like Cole she was part of Team England,” said mum Jade. “Her bout on the Hunslet show went well and she was happy with how she showcased the skills she spends hours learning at Bad Company. Keevah used the first round to judge her opponent’s style and as the five rounds progressed she got stronger.”
“Keevah’ s ended the year undefeated and has also this year picked up golds in the GB Muay Thai open in March and the Intercontinental Sandee championship in April, as well as securing gold in Verona. We’re all very proud of her commitment and enthusiasm and the icing on the cask has been this win on Hitman. She’ll be defending this title and hopefully challenging for the ICO world title.”
Both children are keen to represent England again in 2026 at the WBC world championships to be held in the Thai capital Bangkok in June. “At this level the competitors are well protected in the ring with padded body vests, shin guards and head guards,” explained coach Richard Smith. “They’re not allowed to use their elbows and there’s no striking to the head. That comes much later. Keevah and Cole work so hard. They’ve accumulated so many belts that they don’t know which is which and hopefully they’ll win more in Thailand next summer.”
Hitman Leeds organiser and five-time super bantamweight world champion Thai boxer Andy Howson represented Bad Company throughout his career. “We’re grateful to all who purchased a ticket and came to support elite athletes like Keevah and Cole. Hitman Leeds was a sellout with a fantastic atmosphere as everyone enjoyed 28 exciting, exhilarating fights. All out drama. Just what Hitman Fight League delivers. The show to be part of.”
All UK Thai boxing is self-funded. If able to offer sponsorship to Keevah please contact her parents at Srender1@hotmail.co.uk .
