Boxers deliver standout performances across three days of action
TWO boxers from Blackbird Leys ABC delivered standout performances across three thrilling days of action at the Ed Bilbey Box Cup in Grantham.
Senior middleweight Jamal Franklin, 19, and youth welterweight Yousef Elmgraif, 17, represented the Oxford club.
In the quarter-finals, Franklin was drawn against the highly-rated Tommy Naismith from York. Over three intense rounds, Franklin displayed sharp technical ability, adapting to his opponent's style and forcing a standing count in the final round.
Franklin's dominance was reflected in a unanimous decision victory, setting the tone for a strong weekend.
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Elmgraif began his campaign against Nauman Ilyas of Solihull. Using his range and dynamic level changes, he overwhelmed his opponent, delivering three standing counts and forced a stoppage in the third round.
Day two brought fresh challenges. Franklin faced local veteran Nathan Wallace (34) from Grantham ABC in the semi-finals.
Despite Wallace's cut from the previous day reopening early in the bout, Franklin controlled much of the action, effectively evading wild charges while landing cleaner shots. In a result that surprised both corners, the bout was awarded to Wallace on a split decision.
Elmgraif's semi-final saw him matched against Hayden Lloyd of Touch Gloves Grantham. Lloyd's style was no match for Elmgraif's relentless pressure and composed aggression, and earned another unanimous decision to book his place in the final.
On finals day, Elmgraif faced Aidan Perry of White Rose Boxing Club for the Youth Class B under-67kg title.
Undeterred by Perry's height advantage, Elmgraif worked both head and body with relentless forward pressure, again securing a unanimous decision and taking home the gold medal.
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