Boxing – Andy Jones becomes British super heavyweight champion

Jun 4 2009 by David Bergin, Flintshire Chronicle

Boxing – Andy Jones becomes British super heavyweight champion

WELSH wonder Andy Jones has built on his four national titles to be crowned super heavyweight champion of Britain, writes David Bergin.

The usually cool Jones had to keep stress and nerves at bay as he prepared for a shot at one of the biggest crowns in amateur boxing.

Yet the emotions had nothing to do with the Three Nations event in Liverpool as the Mold fighter had just moved house and was best man for his brother’s wedding on the day of the final!

For most, this would hardly be ideal preparation, but the 25-year-old, who works for Morgan Est on water board maintenance, remained unfazed as he juggled family politics, training, work, moving, decorating and, ultimately, two fights.

“I had a pretty busy week but everything worked out well really,” said Jones, a member of Deva ABC in Saltney. “I moved in on the Sunday before last and started doing all the decorating and everything last week. I think it helped take my mind off it because sometimes you tend to think about things too much and it can go against you.

“I was training at the beginning of the week, then boxed on Thursday in the semi-final and had to weigh-in for the final on Friday morning. Then I had to leave Liverpool again to come back for my brother’s wedding in Mold. After I finished at the day’s do, I returned to Liverpool to box in the final.”

Jones, who qualified for the Three Nations by winning the Welsh crown for the fourth year running, beat England’s Anim Isa 13-6 in the semis before stunning Scotland’s Ross Henderson 9-2 in the final.

“I was more nervous for the best man’s speech,” said Jones. “A few people were going to come and support me but I asked them to stay at the wedding because, as my dad said to me, I’ll box again but my brother will only get married the once hopefully.”

British champion Andy Jones is looking for sponsorship and if you can help call the Chronicle on 01244 606469 and we will pass on contact details.