Boxer barred from ring over spring in false leg

An amputee boxer has been barred from competing because his prosthetic leg would give him an advantage in fights, it has been claimed.

Matt Edwards, from Hampshire, claims he has been refused an amateur licence by England Boxing, the sport’s governing body, because the spring in his metal leg gives him more power in his punches. The 24-year-old had lost his left leg in a motorcycle crash five years ago, the BBC reported. A below-the-knee amputation sent Mr Edwards into a spiral of depression and drugs before he turned to boxing.

A spokesman for England Boxing said: “We are investigating potential options for inclusive competitions.”