Witter Wins WBC Belt
16/09/06

Friday night saw Junior give a masterly display of boxing to totally confound world-class American DeMarcus Corley and earn a unanimous and wide points decision. Years of frustration were put to rest as Witter proved beyond doubt his credentials as an exceptionally skilled boxer who deserves to be recognized amongst the world's elite.

'I'm on top of the world, this is the best feeling ever. I've proved so many people wrong tonight and so I dedicate this victory to my trainers, the Ingles and Alec Allan, my amateur trainer.

'It's also for all those people - friends, family, gymates, fans - who believed in me over the years' said Junior.

The opening four rounds were predictably close as both boxers sought to feel-out their opponent. But by the fifth round Witter had started to land heavy shots and wobbled Corley badly in both the fifth and sixth stanzas.
Junior could also claim that he dropped Corley twice, though the referee adjudged both to be slips.

After asserting his dominance in the middle rounds, showing outstanding speed and judgment and classic Ingle-style elusive defensive prowess, Junior eased home through the late rounds as Corley, seemingly broken-hearted, failed to even come close to troubling the Bradford switch-hitter. Some in the crowd and even watching at home felt Witter was so dominant he could be awarded at least nine - possibly ten - of the twelve rounds of boxing.

At the final bell there could be no debate who had won and trainer Dominic Ingle raced into the ring to lift his champion onto his shoulders amid wild celebrations from Junior's entourage and the partisan, vocal Alexandra Palace crowd. It was an unforgettable moment for everyone connected with Junior Witter.

Talk amongst boxing has already, and inevitably, turned towards a dream match up with Ricky Hatton next year. But for now Junior is taking a well-earned rest. On his return from holiday he will sit down with his camp and decide on his future strategy.

Full round-by-round report and pictures to follow later this week.