In what can only be described as an electrifying evening for grassroots boxing, Wellingborough Amateur Boxing Club (WABC) proved that they’re not just in it to take part—they’re here to build champions. The club’s second home show, aptly named “Eruption,” brought together local talent and passionate supporters for an event that felt as professional as it was inspirational.

A Night to Remember

Hosted at Wollaston School just outside Wellingborough, the show drew a supportive crowd of around 300 spectators. Despite the venue being a change from the club’s usual setting, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and community pride. The event was meticulously matched, with bouts arranged to test the mettle of each boxer against competitors from other clubs. This strategic matchmaking—often set at a 50/50 or 60/40 split in favour of the visiting clubs—ensured that every fight was a true test of skill and determination.

Standout Performances

Several young boxers left their mark on the night:

Hughie Doherty A rising star in the youth ranks, Hughie, the son and nephew of established boxing figures, made his senior debut in a rematch against Ross Sackett. Transitioning naturally into the 75kg category, he delivered a powerful performance—stopping his opponent in the third round and later winning a hard-fought unanimous decision in the developments bout.

William Green Known for his infectious smile and unyielding spirit, 17-year-old William overcame a rocky start marked by a 30-day suspension due to England Boxing locker issues. Despite personal challenges—including the heart-wrenching loss of his father—William showcased his resilience by bouncing back in the ring. His tenacity earned him a well-deserved nomination for “Boxer’s Boxer,” as well as a silver medal in the Midlands Box Cup.

Bobby Thomas Foster Bobby’s journey is one of pure determination. After losing his first six bouts, he has steadily turned his fortunes around. His hard work culminated in a stunning comeback at the Home Counties Box Cup, where he not only secured a win but also took home the Lee Revell Trophy—a tribute to the enduring spirit of his late mentor from the Marines.

Other fighters like Larae Tinsdale, Ashton Jones, Leighton Forbes, Krista Greenaway, Kylen Hall, and Darius also delivered memorable performances, each contributing to a night that was as much about personal growth as it was about competitive triumph.

Heart, Grit and Community

Beyond the fierce battles in the ring, the show was a celebration of community and resilience. Every coach, volunteer, and supporter played a crucial role in creating an atmosphere that felt both professional and familial. From the meticulous matchmaking to the seamless organization—even in a venue that was a departure from the norm—the event demonstrated that when passion meets purpose, extraordinary things happen.

As Charlie Gerrard, one of the club’s leading figures, noted, “Every single volunteer and coach came together to make this show a success. The feedback from England Boxing officials has been fantastic, and the support from the community proves that our boxers truly feel like world champions.”

Voices of Experience

Ray, Head Coach:“I couldn’t be prouder of our boxers and our team. Each bout was a testament to the hard work and heart our athletes bring to every training session. We’re not just competing—we’re building champions who will carry our legacy forward.”

Paul Rosendale, International Boxing Official:“It was a pleasure to support Wellingborough’s Home Show last Sunday. I have officiated all over the world, and this was one of the best organized shows I have ever attended. Wellingborough should be extremely proud of what they delivered on the day.”

Looking Ahead

The success of the “Eruption” home show is more than just a series of wins on the scorecards—it’s a clear indicator of WABC’s growing strength and ambition. With over 20 carded boxers and nearly every bout reflecting the heart and skill honed in the gym, the club is setting the stage for even bigger things ahead. The message is clear: at WABC, work doesn’t stop after the bell rings.

As the club continues to evolve and nurture local talent, the future of amateur boxing in Wellingborough looks brighter than ever. Stay tuned for more updates as these young champions continue their journey to greatness.