By James Bovington
Pudsey Thai boxer Jamie Ayres is “relishing the sweet taste of winning” following his victory on the Manchester Hitman show Yokkao 52.
Jamie, a 59kg flyweight, won by decision having knocked down opponent Birmingham’s Mohammed Gharred with a second-round spinning elbow shot helping to secure his fifth amateur Muay Thai win.
He said: “I’m beyond delighted at this result on what is the most prestigious Muay Thai event in the UK with over two thousand in attendance.
“I answered every shot thrown showcasing all my skills with elbows at close quarters and kicks from a distance.”
His bout was scheduled for three rounds of three minutes each.
“It’s pro-am. My only visible protection was elbow pads. Fully professional bouts are six minutes longer. I wasn’t nervous during fight camp concentrating on intense training, but it was nerve wracking as my hands were wrapped.”
He walked out to Kanye West’s All The Lights, buoyed by vocal support of over 200 from his gym Bad Company in Bramley/
Jamie added: “There’s nothing like the elation of winning knowing I’ve proved myself physically and mentally the tougher, but a loss is heartbreaking. These emotions mean you care. I’ve lost fights.
“Then I’ve bounced back. I don’t allow myself to be defined by defeat. There’s always something to learn. The Manchester show was exceptional with elite fighters over from Thailand. My teammate legendary Joe Craven won his final contest here before relocating to Australia. I’ll miss him. He’s been both my coach and mentor and is an amazing athlete.”
A former student of Greenside Primary and Pudsey Grammar, Jamie, 23, lives with his mother and older brother.
“I’ve been training in Muay Thai since I was seven. It’s the only sport that’s ever interested me and certainly suits my build. My dad insisted that his highly active younger son channel his energy positively. Hence Muay Thai. I came to Bad Company aware of the deep knowledge of the sport possessed by the owners Team England coaches Richard and Lisa and their total dedication to their fighter’s progress and welfare.”
“Muay Thai offers everyone equal opportunity, regardless of background. The sport brings together a community of people focused on self-improvement.
“It’s taught me discipline, respect and resilience while providing the freedom to shape my own path. I’m never away from the gym as I have at least two daily training sessions and I earn my living coaching both adults and children and teenagers.
“There have been sacrifices obviously. Friendships I’ve lacked the time to nurture. The constant need to maintain physical fitness is difficult in some social settings. My commitment and dedication have strengthened my determination to become the champion I know I can be.”
Jamie has trained in Thailand four times. “I’d boxed in Spain and Italy, but a highlight was winning what’s called my A-class debut by unanimous decision in Patong where I defeated a Thai fighter. It was unreal. I’ve spent about five months in Thailand. Financing these stays is where I spend the money I earn. It’s worth it as I learn so much.”
Elite athletes need financial backing to progress. Katie is sponsored by Combat Sports Initiative. Potential future sponsors can contact him via Instagram @Jamie.ayres or e-mail jamie.ayres089@gmail.com or text coach Richard Smith 07885 270267.
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