Lee Murtagh’s East End park boxing show report

Many of the approaching 300 strong crowd attending Bethlehem Boxing Club’s latest show might have expected to be ‘Lazing on a Sunday Afternoon’ but just as a Queen concert is excitingly high decibel, the fights at East End Park WMC also proved excitingly high-octane.

“It wasn’t a long show, but everyone was impressed with the boxers’ courage and stamina given the heat,” explained Bethlehem’s Lee Murtagh. “We had ten bouts planned for Bethlehem boxers with opponents from elsewhere in the region and are grateful to JP Transport for their sponsorship.”

“Our main event, ‘The Guv’nor’ bout, delivered the expected pure boxing theatre with two tough local men Jordan Lilliu and Darryl Carrington battling for this new title belt. The Leeds version of the 2017 film My Name is Lenny which chartered the life of London’s Lenny ‘the Guv’nor’ McLean, apparently a notorious bare-knuckle fighter and enforcer.”

While Jordan and Darryl aren’t in that category, they know how to entertain a crowd with Jordan beginning proceedings rolling into the ring. The noisy support for both enthusiastic heavyweights showed people appreciated an entertaining and exhilarating fight.

The victory went to Darryl, 39, who’s “up for a rematch” given that this was such a good fight. Jordan agrees. “I’ve known Lee Murtagh for seven years and yes, a rematch would be good,” he said, adding: “But only when I’ve improved my fitness level. Watch this space.”

Also securing title belts were Bethlehem boxers Declan Lister at featherweight and Seb Preszes at cruiserweight. Declan, 21, is a care worker and Seb, 46, works as a dispatch manager. Declan is “glad to be back boxing following a serious hand injury and delighted to have successfully defended my title from challenger Connor Wales.” Seb is “proud to have won a title with just 18 months coaching. Boxing’s done wonders for me as training’s helped me lose 20 kilos.”

Bethlehem’s boxers Otley chef Noah West, 21, and Bradford’s Ibocwa Toy, 26, featured in a demonstration bout which allows novice fighters to display skills learnt without the pressure of a win/lose decision. “What a great experience just a couple of months into my boxing training,” said Noah, “taken on short notice with me keen for a re-match.” Ibocwa added that “like Noah I’m staying ready for my next bout.”

If interested in training at Bethlehem Boxing Club on Upper Accommodation Road LS9 8RZ contact Lee Murtagh on 07793 240535 or e-mail leemurtaghbui@hotmail.com.