ALEX Florence secured the Central England men’s light welterweight belt with a victory over previous holder Joshua Wall.

The Ledbury Amateur Boxing Club ace travelled to challenge for the 64kg title in his opponent’s home city of Stoke.

They fought three rounds lasting three minutes each and Wall enjoyed a range and height advantage.

But Florence moved inside and let his speed and power do the talking.

He connected with a clean left hook to the body, causing Wall to drop in the first 20 seconds of the opening round.

It was called a low blow but on video evidence did not even touch the belt line.

The referee let Wall recover for a minute and then let them continuebox on.

Florence took the first round with ease before claiming the second and third.

But He still only won the fight on a split decision and is now inviting any challengers for the belt.

Coach and father Fred Florence said: “I am very proud of my son as I am of everybody in my gym.

“Alex has put a lot of work into it. He is a very dedicated kid and sacrifices a lot in his life because of his love for the sport. I think he will go a long way in this sport.”

New members are always welcome at the Ledbury club, which is based at 5A Homend Trading Estate and opens on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7pm until 9pm.

For more details, call 01531 631879.