ELITE start 2012 with a bang

Success has followed the Elite Gym into 2012 and they have started off the new year with a bang, making two huge statements in UK Muay Thai. Firstly, European Champion, Kevin Ward fought earlier this month under K1 rules, for the K1 British Title sanctioned by the WRSA. This being the first time Ward has competed in K1. K1 is similar to Muay Thai, only fought over 3, 3 minute rounds and limits the clinch with no elbows. The Elite gym fighter fought UKMF English Champion Gavin Rogerson. The pair had some history as Rogerson had avoided fighting Ward on several occasions in the past and definitely didn't fancy the Full Thai Rules, however in the end the fight was inevitable. On paper the fight looked even, both competitors bringing different skill sets to the table, although in the ring it was clear Ward was of a different class. Dominating Rogerson with solid boxing and knees from start to finish. Rogerson suffering two eight counts in round 2, but showed some great heart to continue until the final bell. Ward winning one of the most convincing unanimous decisions to add the K1 British Title to his rather large collection with 2x English, now 2x British, 1x European and 1x World titles to boast.


Jake (left) & Kevin Ward

Secondly, just this weekend Jake Barton fought under Muay Thai rules at the Black E Centre, China Town, Liverpool. Barton had the toughest test of his young career in Scott Richards hailing from RAMA Camp in Bristol. Richards having double the amount of experience in 25 fights collecting Midland Area, English and British titles. Current British Champion, Barton had a slow start to the fight, scheduled for 5 rounds and the fight seemed very close after the first three rounds with the Elite corner thinking Richards was edging it. But after a slap round the face from Coach Andy Brocklebank and a reminder off Dad, Phil that he was fighting live on Fight night TV Barton came into the 4th a different fighter. Hurting Richards with solid body shots, Barton delivered two 8 counts to his opponent in this round, showing his experience Richards met each count to fight on. However in the 5th, Barton smelt blood, knowing his opponent was in trouble. After instruction from the corner to finish the fight Barton forced the clinch and landed a double knee combination the first to the body and the second landed on Richards chin knocking him out. The seasoned Veteran was unable to meet the count, Barton winning by KO in round 5. This win boosts Barton up in the UK rankings and holds him on par with some of the UK's top middleweight talent.

Both fighters make their return to Southport on the 1st April at the Elite Fighting Championships IV 'A Night of Champions' hosted at the Price of Wales Hotel, Lord Street. Ward Takes on up coming Dan Edwards, a strong knockout artist from Birmingham whilst Barton looks to keep the ball rolling as he squares up with Stoke's Steve Jones, expect fireworks in this one yet again. Also Elite's Didzis Musulis will fight for the K1 North West Area title on the bill and first time performances from Chris O'Grady and Matt Jones, also from Elite Gym. For information on sponsoring the show or a fighter please contact Phil Barton on 07909666750, the promotion offers a sponsorship package to cater for all needs , be they small or large! Tickets will be on sale this week from all local gyms and fighters. The Elite Gym have moved and are now full time in Shakespeare Street Southport Unit 25. With classes for all, for more info on classes Call Andy on 07725854923 or Phil as above.

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Well done guys,its a shame people are so slow to give congratulations to successful champions in Southport.