‘I can’t wait’ were Cooper’s words interviewed before the bout.
“I enjoyed every second,” said Cooper immediately afterwards.
“I became more confident and comfortable as the four rounds progressed.
“I’ve been looking forward to this for years. Now I’ve done it.
“There’s a bit of relief because now I know that I can concentrate on developing a professional boxing career.
“Hopefully a highly successful one.”
“Henri’s win came 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.
“You could hear Henri’s shots as he attacked the experienced Glasgow boxer Donnie MacIness relentlessly.
“We expect great things from him. Henri’s a very young man at just 18 and he has the time fully to realise his potential.
“His future is exciting.”
Cooper’s smiles throughout the super welterweight bout and his little dance of pleasure and pride at his heart-warming faultless win will have endeared him to the audience with the end of the fight coming as a mercy for his opponent.
“My life has revolved around boxing for as long as I can remember, although I also enjoyed playing competitive football when younger,” explained Henri.
“I sold 170 tickets to my bout and am so grateful to everyone who came to support.
Henri Cooper poses with his team after the York boxer was victorious on his professional debut.(Image: Ali Aljabiry)
“I’m keen to build my fanbase in York and beyond by being an entertaining and exhilarating boxer who showcases his skills but also knows how to fight.”
At 22, Wharton-trained Jack Marshall is four years Cooper’s senior and has established himself as a talented championship prospect, as confirmed by his Leeds victory at lightweight over Dorset’s Stefan Vincent.
This was undefeated Marshall’s first six round bout and eighth professional win since joining the paid ranks in 2023.
“Jack also put on a high-quality performance and showed that he’s physically and mentally tough,” observed Wharton.
“He needs experience to overcome adversity and realise his potential to become a champion.
“No boxer has it all his own way, but Jack will eventually get stoppages and make his name known as he deserves to do.”
Also on the Leeds card was York’s Will Harrison, four years a professional and who defeated Lancastrian Dale Arrowsmith on points over six rounds.
“I was pleased to get the win and brush off any developing ring rust,” said Harrison.
“I’m straight back into training camp as I prepare to defend my area welterweight title belt in a ten-rounder with Lewis Booth at Doncaster Dome on 21st November.”
Wharton joined the York boxers in thanking their numerous sponsors. Other potential sponsors should contact the boxers directly via their social media.