A BOXING championship for fighters aged over 40 is returning to Verwood this December, bringing together competitors from across the world.
The Dorset Boxing Championships, run by Ringwood & Verwood Amateur Boxing Club, has announced the return of its Masters Boxing Championship, the UK’s first and leading promotion dedicated to boxers aged 40 and above.
The event, taking place at The Hub in Verwood on Friday, December 19, marks the second instalment of the championship following a sold-out debut in May.
The Dorset Boxing Championships (Image: Ross Dimmock)
The boxers will come from all over UK, Germany and the United States for what organisers promise will be a “safe, highly skilled and inspiring” night of sport.
Organiser Ross Dimmock said the previous show had been “a tremendous success”, drawing a full house for an evening of quality boxing, local food and live entertainment.
He said: “The show welcomes all ages and celebrates the spirit, discipline, and camaraderie of Masters Boxing. Our previous event in May was a tremendous success—an electric, sold-out evening enjoyed by the entire community.
“Spectators were treated to quality boxing, great local food, and live entertainment.”
This year’s championship has 17 bouts, including several international headline contests.
Local champion Mo Kargbo will defend his title against German veteran Mario Schröder, who impressed organisers during a recent appearance in Markt Ebach.
The Dorset Boxing Championships (Image: Ross Dimmock)
Another eagerly anticipated contest will see Brad Armitage of MK Boxing Bournemouth take on crowd favourite Carl Hobley, a renowned bare-knuckle world champion whose participation drew significant interest from challengers.
The bill also includes a four-man Masters Prizefighter tournament featuring Steven Smith, Sonny Levy, Chicago’s Ryan Shosed and current Masters Champion Marlon Gray, with winners returning to the ring later in the night to compete for the title.
The Dorset Boxing Championships (Image: Ross Dimmock)
Ross said: “The evening will open with a special exhibition between two competitors in their early 60s: Lloyd Paddock of SAS Boxing Southampton and Germany’s Peter Fhron Lux, highlighting the longevity and dedication within Masters Boxing.
“The event represents countless hours of work and hope it will strengthen ties with German partners ahead of a potential collaboration with the WBU next year.”
Doors open at 5pm, with live music from Ady of Howson Entertainments and food by Jay Jays. Tickets are available via The Hub’s booking office.