To make 2025 even sweeter for Cooper, his pro debut bout in Leeds in October described by his coach, York’s Henry Wharton, as ‘one of the best I’ve ever seen.’
Cooper finished the year with his second victory paid ranks victory over Doncaster’s Sam Kirk in the latter’s hometown.
“It’s been wonderful, amazing, fantastic, whatever word you want to use,” said super welterweight Cooper.
“I’m 18. I’ve achieved my ambition to become one of the youngest professional boxers on the scene.
“I enjoyed the amateurs and now I’ve launched my professional career.
“I came to my second bout fresh from a five-day training camp at a high-quality gym in Madrid, where even in a short time I made some good friends.
“In 2026 I want to gain as much experience as possible. When my coach decides the time is right, I’ll be going for titles.
“The future is bright.”
“Henri’s first two professional wins come after an excellent amateur career which saw him win major amateur competitions such as London’s Haringey box cup, and he travelled with us to Denmark and Portugal winning gold and silver respectively,” continued Wharton.
“We expect great things from him. Henri’s a very young man at just eighteen and he has the time fully to realise his potential.
“His future’s exciting.”
“My life has revolved around boxing for so long although I also enjoyed playing competitive football when younger,” added Cooper.
“I sold an average of 140 tickets to each of my bouts.
“I’m beyond grateful to everyone who came to support. I need to keep moving forward and develop my fanbase as an entertaining and exciting boxer who showcases technical skills but also knows how to fight.”
Cooper appreciates the ‘extensive support of many local businesses, so many thanks to York Brickwork, Southbank Homes, Platinum Plastering, Edge Windows, On Top Roofing, Knavesmire Butchers, Vine House Construction, D&D windows, Bromwich Family Butchers, Nunthorpe Services, York Windows Manufacturing, Morgan Medley, Catlane Vans, Only Vans, House of Piccadilly and Woodstone1.’
Future potential sponsors should contact Cooper directly via Instagram @henricooper1.
Cooper made his October debut on Mark Bateson’s Elland Road show themed as Doomsday.
His second bout at Doncaster Dome and themed as Dust Up was also promoted by Mark Bateson.