Mandurah-based boxer “Action” Jackson England cemented his claim as one of Western Australia’s best young talents with a stunning victory at Thunderdome 22 on Friday night.
In just his third professional bout, England went the distance over four rounds with New South Wales prospect T.C Priestly, boxing his way to a unanimous points decision win to remain undefeated.
The up and comer said it was an amazing feeling to notch his third win, which could see him climb into the top 10 of the Australian rankings.
“It feels great, really, it’s just a brilliant feeling,” he said.
“He (Priestly) was definitely my toughest fight yet – I thought I landed a few good punches that hurt him a bit but he just kept coming back.
“To finish with the win and to have it be a unanimous decision was amazing.”
England opened the fight trying to get a read on Priestly, and found a rhythm after the initial stages.
Going the full four rounds was a change of pace for England, after ending his first two fights with knockouts in the second and first round respectively.
But the local pro shone in the face of his toughest physical challenge, using it as an opportunity to impress promoters with his ability to stay the course.
“I was really happy with the way the fight panned out in the end,” he said.
“It gave me the chance to show people I can fight over a number of rounds, which is something I hadn’t been able to do before.
“Obviously you try to end it as soon as you get an opportunity, but my opponent was a tough fighter, so it was nice to be able to go the distance with him.”
The victory reinforces England’s place among the top talents the state has to offer.
The Mandurah-based fighter has been on a steady climb up the rankings since his debut, and is a chance to crack the top 10 after going undefeated through his first three bouts.
Now, England is hoping to remain on his ascent, with his eyes fixed on a possible title fight should his success continue.
“To be fighting for titles is obviously the goal,” he said.
“Overall I’m just really happy with how things are tracking – I’ll just keep training and keep fighting to win.
“My coach Jay Gray has been massive for me, so we’ll continue working and the rewards will come.”
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
