Boxing: Northland trio shine at international event

Wellsford's Magan Maka, boxing out of the blue corner, was a clear winner over Roeanna Cox in the Boxing Explosion 3 event at ASB Stadium on Saturday night. Photo/John Stone

Two technical knockouts by Whangarei's Josh Bowman had the crowd roaring and highlighted the Boxing Explosion 3 event at ASB Stadium.

Josh, who was one of three Northlanders fighting in the international event, was unstoppable in both of his fights, landing heavy and accurate hits time-and-time again.

Also coming away with wins on Saturday were Kamo's Deanne Carpenter and Commonwealth Games-bound Wellsford boxer Magan Maka.

For Maka, who was fighting in Whangarei for the second time, it was a chance to show young Northlanders what they can achieve in sport.

"I like fighting local because I get more supporters," the quiet 20-year-old, who pumped her arms during her fight to rev the crowd up, said.

"I get to fight in front of my locals and they get a good look at where I am and how I'm doing.

"Most youth in my community are into drinking and smoking, so it's like setting a good example for the youth in my community.

"I like to be there so they can see what they can do too."

Maka felt the atmosphere at the event was a positive one, saying it was good to see Northlanders supporting the Whangarei Boxing Gym-hosted event.

Next up for Maka was the Commonwealth Games next month, which she said was making her feel excited and nervous.

Whangarei Boxing Gym owner Tim Bowman, who is also Josh's dad, described the event as "magic" before adding it was satisfying to see it come and go.

"I think the favourite moment was the end of the event, I think all the kids did so well in their boxing that's what [the crowd] enjoyed so much," Tim commented after a long night of tidying up. "Honestly it was magic.

"I had a comment from the announcer, who does main events for David Tua and Joseph Parker, and he said it was one of the best shows he'd been to."

Tim, who coaches his son, said for now he was not sure where Josh's future was despite such dominating performances.

"I'm really unsure at this stage as to what Josh's plans are. His performance was so good people just want him to keep boxing, we'll carry on as a gym as usual and keep getting some kids up there boxing."