Newquay bomber maintains his record

CORNISH professional boxer Brad Pauls kept his unbeaten record – but was severely tested by opponent Ryan Kelly at the 02 Arena in East London on Friday night.

Fight 16 for the Newquay Bomb was a BBBofC middleweight title eliminator and the 29-year-old won with a split decision – and said he felt like the ‘whole of Cornwall’ was supporting him on the night.

The boxer posted a video message on his Twitter account on Saturday – and the bruises on his face were clear to see.

“It was a tough fight – it was probably the toughest fight of my career,” he said.

“It was a real close fight as well. Massive respect to my opponent, Ryan Kelly, he fought his heart out as well.

“I also want to thank everyone for their comments, their likes, their shares... your support means so much to me.”

It was Birmingham boxer Kelly’s 20th pro fight and his fourth defeat.

The 28-year-old was another step up in quality for Pauls and over the 10 rounds he did enough to at least impress one of the judges enough to get their vote.

Pauls, who lives in Harlow, Essex, made his pro fight debut in 2015 and is becoming a real hot prospect in the sport.

It was his first fight since November last year when he beat Angel Emilov on points at an event put on at the Guildhall in Plymouth.

Despite living and training in Harlow, it is in Cornwall that he has cultivated a strong fan base. That was evident to the boxer when he switched his phone back on after the fight and saw the reaction to his win on social media.

He said: “I felt like the whole of Cornwall - from corner to corner supported me and it is a crazy feeling and so motivating that all those people want me to do well – and I am glad I got the win for everyone.

“The messages and stuff I got was insane. But I will now leave my phones for a day, just to enjoy myself, but I appreciate all the messages from everyone.

“Sixteen and ‘O’ – British title eliminator won. On to the next one. Thankyou everyone - I am very happy.”