Body Shots boxing club is celebrating after two young talents sealed impressive wins in the ABA South East Youth Championships last weekend.

Luke Cullen and Michael Hennessy, both aged 16, claimed dominant victories over strong opponents at the Balham Territorial Army Centre.

Body Shots Academy, based in Dartford, has a strong reputation of developing young boxers and Pete Stanhope, the club’s Head Coach, was delighted with his prodigies’ results.

He said: “For them both to win on the same day was fantastic for our club - I was absolutely delighted.

“They had both been training really hard and sparring well so we were confident.

“The fights were very exciting and they out-boxed their opponents from the off. They were both unanimous decisions which was impressive.”

Cullen, who attends North West Kent College, started boxing four years ago and has developed into a formidable fighter.

The Greenhithe-based boxer won his title in the 60kg category and says the victory was a sign of marked improvement in his ability.

“I was over the moon,” Cullen said. “I just love boxing and to win this fight was a step in the right direction.

“My opponent was a lot older than me and was very strong - it was a tough fight. But I just landed my shots and thankfully was able to beat him.”

The former Wilmington pupil also spoke highly of Body Shots, where he trains around six days a week.

“It really is like a second home to me,” the fighter said.

“I’m down there all the time, there’s a great atmosphere and people like Pete [Stanhope] and Lee Wilkins [club owner and coach] have helped me a lot.”

Hennessy, who started boxing at 11, also came up against a tough opponent but insists he was always confident of a positive outcome.

He said: “I was quite nervous because I was fighting a strong kid, he’s a real hard puncher.

“I am always confident when I go into the ring, if you’re not you shouldn’t be there.

“When I realised I won it was a mixture of relief and excitement - he was two years older so it’s a good confidence boost.”

The Whitgift School pupil added: “Body Shots is a proper gym, there are lots of lads our age so it’s ideal for sparring. I am very happy here.”

After the impressive wins in Balham, 2016 promises to be an exciting year for the formidable duo.

Coach Stanhope added: “They are both really good kids and will be very good boxers.

“Luke’s movement is superb and he’s strong, and I was very impressed by Michael - he’s a good boxer and kept on his opponent."

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