Former Bantamweight Champion Martin Power beat Francis Croes at Brentwood Leisure Centre in Essex

Published: 11 February, 2011
by STEVE BARNETT

FORMER British bantamweight champion Martin “Too Much” Power looked back to his best on Saturday when he beat Francis Croes at Brentwood Leisure Centre in Essex. 

The Castlehaven Road-based fighter (pictured), who turns 31 on Monday, was due to face Ashley Sexton in his first fight since dropping down to super flyweight. 

Despite a last-minute change of opponent, Power made a dream debut at his new weight as he dominated Croes from the first bell until referee Richie Davies stopped the action in the fifth round. 

With his sights firmly set on a shot at the Commonwealth title, Power said: “The fight couldn’t have gone any better. 

“He literally only caught me with one shot, so for once I don’t look too bad after a fight. 

“I’ve been promised a title fight this year, and until then I’ll be kept busy and am expecting to back in the ring by April.”

Power’s victory continues a magnificent month for St Pancras Amateur Boxing Club. Next weekend (Saturday, February 19) top junior prospect Ricky Redhead competes in the semi-finals of the National Schoolboy Championships after beating Ernie Rutherford in his previous fight. 

Senior coach CJ Hussein said, “To have someone like Martin representing the club is a great honour, he’s an excellent role model for the kids.

“Ricky is also a great asset to the club. When he first walked into the gym four years ago he was an overweight young boy with no confidence because he was getting bullied. 

“Now he’s a confident young man with a promising boxing career ahead of him.”