Jones sets his standards high - The Redditch Standard

Jones sets his standards high

Redditch Editorial 18th Feb, 2019   0

REDDITCH Boxing Academy’s Connor Jones competed impressively in his first skills bout against Aiden Price of Priory Park ABC, Dudley.

Jones, a heavy-handed scrapper by nature, shocked Redditch coaches Sarah Lee and Mark Roberts when he put on a display of skill, style and classic long-range boxing befitting of a seasoned veteran.

Holding the centre of the ring, Jones fired the jab towards the head of Price who, keeping his lead hand low, retaliated in throwing back at Jones, moving out of range as he went.

Jones stalked him around the ring as the pair exchanged combinations in the corners.




Both fighters pounced on each other at the start of round two, with Jones slipping the right hand of Price, countering with his own. Both boxers put on an outstanding display of skill, with heavy exchanges from both sides until the referee gave Jones a warning for hitting too hard (skills bouts are to enable novice boxers to develop in a competitive environment without being over-matched).

Adjusting his headguard, Jones bounced in an out of range, swapping power for point-scoring punches. Following Lee’s instruction, he landed a rear hand coming into range, covering his retreat with a front-hand jab and ensuring he was protected when disrupting Price’s rhythm.


Price, equally motivated, threw rear hands and left hooks, occasionally hitting the target and sometimes hitting the gloves.

Demonstrating great skill, Jones was successful when landing straight shots, moving out the line of attack, then throwing a second phase of attack – a skill perfect for a competitive bout – but Jones received another telling-off from the referee to relax and hold back on power.

Jones was trying his best but, with his natural power and limited experience, some of the heavy shots were still getting through. Both boxers began round three trading punches in the centre of the ring, before Price moved away behind the jab.

The jab was the weapon of choice for most of the round as Jones moved in and out of range to pick punches and score.

For the remainder of the round, Jones pushed the pace, attempting to trap Price in the corners before landing punches with sniper-like accuracy. Both boxers did themselves proud as they began their journeys in this most demanding of sports.

Redditch Boxing Academy head coach Lee said: “I couldn’t be prouder of Connor. He is in the gym every night, gives 100 per cent and for him to put on a display like that was incredible.

“He’s out again on Saturday and if he performs like this we expect great things.”

Redditch Boxing Academy has now had boxers competing in 18 shows so far this season and is currently training individuals for the England Boxing ‘One Night Only’ extravaganza. Call the gym on 01527 526917.

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