TRIUMPH ABC boxer Aaron Bowen took home the National Amateur Championships under-81kg title on Saturday night, after beating George Crotty with a split decision at Manchester Central.
The Coventry boxer’s latest triumph puts out a real statement of intent for his future hopes of representing Team GB, and now gets the opportunity to represent England at the Three Nations tournament in Scotland.
Bowen expressed his delight at lifting the title, and hailed the support that he received on the way to his big win.
“I really enjoyed the final in Manchester, we took over 80 people up who gave great support.
“Having been beaten by Crotty in the quarter-final last year, I knew I was going to give my all to get the win.”
Speaking on the fight itself, Bowen said: “The fight was hard, he came out fast in the first round and landed some good shots, but I knew I could keep the pace of the bout better.
“In the second round, I came out fast and put it on him from the off.
“I thought the last round was up for grabs – with it being one round a piece, so with the crowd helping I just gave everything to come out with the win.
“It was such a relief to finally get the belt and to reach the final, after falling short so many times before.
“Then to come out of the ring and to hear all of my supporters chanting “there’s only one Aaron Bowen” ‘ just topped it off, it’s a night I’ll never forget.”
The win against Team GB boxer Crotty puts Bowen in the spotlight for a trial, which Bowen is now targetting by making an impression for England in the Three Nations.
He aims to test himself against the national champions in Scotland, and has previous history on his side, having won the Three Nations at youth level – but realises the impression that can be made by repeating the success as a senior level boxer.