Superb silver for boxer Baker at Alexandra Palace

Recognised as the largest and most competitive Box Cup tournament in Europe, the event attracts elite boxers from across the UK and around the world.

Baker (17), a student at Stanground Academy, competed in the Open Class Youth Under 60kg division.

Facing the challenge of boxing up an age group against 17 and 18-year-old opponents, Baker had to navigate three tough contests across three consecutive days to reach the final.

In the quarter-final, Baker faced highly-rated Freddie Fisher of Legends Boxing Club in Essex. Fisher arrived with an impressive pedigree as a multi-combat sport international champion, but Baker showed no signs of being intimidated.

Producing a composed and skilful display, he controlled every round with accurate body shots and excellent range-finding. His slick southpaw switching style repeatedly created openings that Fisher struggled to handle, earning Baker a dominant unanimous points victory and a place in the semi-finals.

The semi-final saw Baker take on a strong opponent from TM Boxing Club, London, but once again he delivered a mature performance to secure another unanimous points win to book his place in the final.

Awaiting him in the Championship bout was reigning National Champion Max Pickering of Bishop Auckland Boxing Club and it proved to be

a thrilling encounter between two highly skilled boxers with similar styles. Pickering edged the opening round, with Baker working hard to find his range against the sharp and experienced champion.

Knowing he needed a response, Baker raised the tempo in the second round, taking control of the pace and forcing Pickering on to the back foot. His efforts levelled the contest heading into the final round.

The deciding round was a closely fought affair with both boxers landing quality shots in a contest that had the crowd fully engaged before Pickering

was awarded victory by a narrow points decision.

Despite falling just short of gold, Baker’s performances throughout the tournament earned widespread praise. Competing above his age group in his first year as a youth boxer and over the demanding three-minute round format, he demonstrated tremendous skill, maturity and potential, defeating top-class opposition, including national champions, on his route to a well-deserved silver medal.

Adding to the success story was the role of Baker’s older brother, Alfie, who coached him throughout the tournament.

Elsewhere, 12-year-old Reuben Gregory represented the club in a skills bout in Halstead in Essex.

Gregory produced an energetic and entertaining display against a talented boxer from Witham Boxing Club, gaining valuable experience and continuing his development in the sport.