Basildon Freestyle Kickboxing Club returned with a new national title after a night of mixed fortunes against top national and international competition at Bethnal Green's York Hall.

Sixteen-year-old prospect Neil Burns was first to get a taste of the action for Basildon - taking on Londoner Lawrence Bowman in a 57kg contest.

After a very fast start, it was Bowman who took the opening exchanges but Burns stuck to his task to claim the following two rounds with a stylish performance.

Young Toni Clarke - who dramatically k.o'd former EastEnders TV star Judith Jacobs in her last outing - was next into the ring for the Pitsea-based club.

The 16-year-old was pitched against 20-year-old Czech Romana Anselmiova who had a reputation for being a particularly smart operator.

Despite putting on a brave display, Toni was outgunned on the night, losing out to a points verdict.

One of Basildon's most experienced senior fighters, Dave Jenkins, provided the biggest upset of the night when he took on Poland's Alex Waneski in the following contest.

Jenkins, who entered the ring with three losses from 21 pro encounters, suffered two devastating head shots in round two - one from a glove and another from a right foot - to force his corner to throw in the towel.

Last on the bill for Basildon was the return to title action for 19-year-old Scott Cameron, fighting for the WKA National Cruiserweight crown.

The highly rated Ade Onegun, from Brixton, was Cameron's opposition and the Basildon pugilist did exactly what was asked of him against a man six years his senior.

Cameron worked at distance against the much taller Onegun, flooring the Londoner with some ferocious inside work to earn a unanimous points verdict and a well deserved WKA belt.

Cornermen Chris Day, Ricky Judd and Rob Judd were grateful for the tremendous support from the large travelling crowd.

Reflecting on the night's action, Rob said: "As always, we have pride for all our fighters, and thank all our travelling fans for their support.

"Dave Jenkins' defeat will be a shock for him just as much as it is for us but, being the man he is, he will return an even better fighter for it. And young Scott's title win can hopefully earn him some great encounters in the coming months."

If you would like to get involved with the club, either by joining or helping with the support of current members, contact either Chris Day on 07803 127271 or Rob Judd on 07712 588701.

Packing a punch - Basildon's Neil Burns, Dave Jenkins and Scott Cameron had an evening of highs and lows at Bethnal Green.

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

By Stuart Hillis

Reporter's e-mail: stuart.hillis@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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