MIDDLEWEIGHT Rio Gordon carved his name in Harwich Boxing Club history by becoming its second boxer to reach the national elite senior finals.
The 23-year-old, who’s been boxing at Harwich for the past five years, aimed to achieve this extraordinary feat over the weekend of April 13 and 14.
For the quarter-final, he was pitted against former National Youth champion, John Dugdale of Leigh ABC.
Displaying a refreshing lack of restraint, Mr Gordon forced a standing eight count inside the first minute, having landed a powerful punch.
Continuing this aggression, he maintained his hold on the bout.
As Mr Dugdale was cautioned for low head work in the final round, his fate was all but certain.
Rio Gordon progressed forward, winning on a unanimous 5-0 points decision.
Day two saw Mr Gordon, the number three seed, face the number two seed and widely appreciated Tyrese Ramsey of Islington ABC in the semi-finals.
Mr Ramsey came into the match with an impressive 26 wins out of 28 fights.
Mr Gordon took command in the initial stages, only to falter and receive a standing count against him.
This created a true test of character, pushing the Harwich boxer to regain control in the following rounds.
His strategic pressure fighting put him in the lead, as he repeatedly forced Tyrese Ramsey back to the ropes.
The dogged determination exhibited by Mr Gordon received its deserving reward.
He was awarded another unanimous 5-0 points decision, securing his spot in the finals.
His next challenge is to face former adversary and reigning national champion, Calum Makin from Merseyside and Cheshire in the final set for Saturday, April 20 in Derby.
Mr Makin, having bested Rio Gordon in the last season's national quarter-final, is sure to ignite a hunger for redemption.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here