Boxing News Boxing News
Kurt Walker is guaranteed at least a bronze medal from the 2012 AIBA World Youth Championships following a magnificent win over Ian Clarke Bautista of the Philippines in Armenia today.
The Canal BC (Lisburn, Co. Antrim) flyweight dominated every round of the 52kg quarter-final in Yerevan to ensure that Ireland won’t be coming home empty handed from the 71-nation tournament.
Walker, a five-time Irish champion, claimed the first frame 6-3, the second 6-4 and the third 7-5 to post an impressive 19-12 victory.
He’ll now be seeking to upgrade to at least silver from Thursday’s last-four meeting with England’s Oliver Reece Simpson (Kelly’s ABC, Yorkshire).
Cuba’s Jorge Luis Cordero-Parlay and Jeyvier Cintron Ocasio of Puerto Rico clash in corresponding semi-final, also on Thursday. Crumlin BC (Dublin) light-heavyweight John Joe McDonagh bowed out today after losing to Russian number one Idris Shakhmanov.
Shakhmanov held a 9-4 advantage going into the third round of this duel, and, despite a typically brave showing from McDonagh, who never stopped coming forward, won the last frame 6-3.
Speaking after today’s win, Jim Russell, Secretary and coach of the Canal BC, which was founded only three years ago, said the club were thrilled with the result from Yerevan.
Noel Reynolds and Paddy McKay also coach at the club.
Former WBA featherweight champion and Irish Olympian Barry McGuigan, who described Walker as an outstanding talent, is club President.
“Kurt has flourished over the last two years and this is a fantastic boost for the club. It’s unbelievable and we’re thrilled with the win. Hopefully, he can now go on and win the gold medal,” said Jim Russell.
Wednesday is a rest day in Yerevan. The semi-finals and finals will be held on Thursday and Friday.
Walker, who has won three bouts in Yerevan so far, and Simpson will be between the ropes at approximately 2.15pm (Irish time) Thursday.
