Local Downs stars shine bright to claims titles at The Big Fights

BOXING: The big stage hasn’t fazed the next generation of Downs boxing stars.

Local victories were the order of the night as The Big Fights 28 card played out in front of a packed Rumours International.

Warwick’s Jake Wyllie delivered in the headline event of the night, taking home the Queensland Super Lightweight title with a TKO victory over Matt Powell.

In controversial circumstances, Powell told the doctor he had vision issues, with a decision ultimately made to end the bout prematurely, with Wyllie taking the win.

Champion Muay Thai fighter Brandon Spain claimed his biggest win in the boxing ring with a knockout defeat of Chris Oliver to claim the Queensland Lightweight title.

Pittsworth’s Stoneleigh Jackson accounted for Josh Smith, while Dylan Biggs of Beaudesert prevailed over Jonathan Tuhu with a unanimous decision.

“There was so many good fights all the way through and it was a good night,” trainer Brendon Smith said.

“All the local lads in their pro fights were able to reach their goals and get their wins.

“Matt Powell claimed he couldn’t see and when the doctors assessed him he said he was struggling with vision.

“It was a quick finish but it’s so great to see Jake win a Queensland title. He’s a great ambassador for boxing.

“Brandon has been a great fighter across multiple codes and now he has a Queensland belt in his ranks.

“Stoneleigh is the pride of Pittsworth. He’s got a small amount of experience but he’s coming along fast. He’s destined for bigger things.

“The depth of boxers on the Downs is very good. We’ve got a whole new generation coming through that are heading up the ladder in the country and we couldn’t be prouder to give them an opportunity.”

Another local in Chance Dawes fell agonisingly short in his bid to claim an Australian amateur title, losing in a split decision to Kippa Keremete.

In one of the fights of the night, both young talents traded blows and left everything in the ring.

“It was the amateur fight of the night and it certainly stacked up to the Australian title,” Smith said.

“It was a great performance from both fighters, and I thought Chance was a bit unlucky not to get the decision.

“He won a lot of fans and that impressed everyone.”