by James Bovington
Bramley boxer Billy Pickles has won the Commonwealth Silver Boxing Title in his super lightweight division on a show at the O2 in Greenwich.
He defeated Wiltshire’s Connor Gray over ten rounds by unanimous decision with the three judges all awarding six of the rounds to Pickles.
“It’s my first time on a show in the capital,” said Pickles, 30, “and I won a closely fought bout with a talented and previously undefeated southpaw.
“I loved every minute of the bout demonstrating my fight skills and entertaining my supporters by trading punches. Just like when I defeated Sheffield’s Keanan Wainwright last July I went to London as the underdog.
“Bringing the belt back to Leeds coupled with the amount of support shown has been amazing and I can’t thank everyone enough, supporters and sponsors.’Â
Pickles, 30, trains at Club Energy under Martin Bateson. He’s won 17 of his 18 paid bouts and is ranked 25th out of 120 active UK super lightweight boxers.
Coach Bateson said: “I’m happy with how Billy’s done in his last two fights where he’s travelled to defeat the opponents on their shows.
“He’s proved that he has what it takes to challenge for bigger titles. Billy never underestimates his opponents so avoids mistakes from over-confidence.Â
“This recent win has rewarded him with the exposure and recognition he deserves. Some opponents have underestimated Billy’s skill, toughness and durability. What people love about Billy is his willingness to accept how hard a fight might have to be for him to dig deep. He left nothing in the gym having covered every angle. A boxer with the heart of a lion.”
Extra sponsorship would allow Pickles to give up full time work and concentrate exclusively on his boxing.
“That way I could win the Commonwealth title and become the next world champion from Leeds. As always, I want to thank my sponsors HB Tunnelling, Baker Harding Recruitment, Rodley Carpets, Redbox Renovations, Haley’s Yard Kitchen, EGFoam Ltd., LA Building & Joinery, Johnson Sports Therapy & Massage and Club Energy.”
Potential sponsors should contact him on Instagram @billytkpickles or by e-mailing billy.pickles@outlook.com.
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