JanineBy James Bovington
United ABC’s recent home show at Harehills Labour Club was more than just a night of boxing; it was a celebration of community, unity, and sporting spirit.
Boxers from all over the North, including Middlesbrough, Macclesfield, and Hull, joined the East Leeds club for a packed evening of fourteen bouts, marking what chief coach Charlie Hughes called “a fantastic first home show.”
Hughes said: “We’re grateful to Josh Warrington and his dad Sean O’Hagan who allow us to be based at their gym and who attended the show along with professional boxing brothers Hopey and Ellis Price who also coach at United ABC.”
Callum Astall, a dedicated 17-year-old apprentice bricklayer, was one of the many boxers who participated in the event. He explained: “I loved the show. It was great to have a chance to demonstrate our skills and what we had been learning in the gym. I love United ABC. We are a team and we are a family.”
Callum, who has been boxing for six years and has already achieved significant milestones, won his fight against an experienced York amateur by unanimous decision. He is now focused on training for the youth championships in January, aiming to become a two-time Yorkshire champion.
He added: “I aim to become Yorkshire champion for a second time. I look up to Josh Warrington, a Leeds lad like me who started out as an amateur and who became a world champion. I intend to follow in his footsteps and turn professional in the next few years.”
Nikki Marshall, Callum’s mother, emphasised the positive impact of the club, saying, “Charlie has coached Callum since he first started boxing. I’m grateful to him for helping Callum achieve his ambitions with complete dedication, taking him around England for fights and sparring to gain valuable boxing experience. United ABC is something special, kids from different races, religions, and backgrounds come together and like the club’s name – they become United.”
Hughes explained that the club’s mission is to help young people reach their full potential: “The club exists to help children like Callum grow in confidence, resilience, and skill while learning a wholesome activity in a safe, friendly environment,” he said, adding: “this show made it clear what can be achieved.”
He also expressed gratitude to his coaching team and sponsors, including KS Civils, Jinnah, Jake’s Truck Shop, ARB Facilities Management, and donors like Mr. Alan Traynor.
Those interested in training at United ABC or offering sponsorship can contact Charlie Hughes via Instagram.
