Caymanian boxer Brandy Barnes claimed gold at the Celtic Box Cup in Ireland after punching her way through the 105 Ib weight class last month.
Barnes, 25, first fought at 115 Ibs where she lost a unanimous decision. However, she cut down to 105 lbs for her second bout, where she stopped her opponent in the third round to become the Senior A Celtic Cup Champion, according to the Cayman Islands Boxing Association.
The amateur boxer, who holds a 6-4 record and has been training in Ireland for the past month, stated in a press release that she was grateful for the matches.
“It was the first time having to fight twice, back-to-back, in a tournament,” she said. “So, I’m pleased to have gained the experience.”
Fellow Caymanian Hepseba Angel fought in the 178 lb Elite weight class at the event, marking the first time she has competed outside of her country.
Angel, 20, entered her fight undefeated at 3-0. However, her inexperience caught up with her as she faced off against a seasoned opponent, who defeated Angel by unanimous decision.
CIBA’s development manager Liam Brereton said that he was pleased with Angel’s efforts against a tough competitor.
“Hepseba is a complete novice with no international experience,” Brereton said. “I decided to let her box at the Elite level based on the success she has had sparring prior to the competition… Even though she lost, the fight was close.”
Angel and Barnes will continue to train in Ireland, and are expected to return to Cayman in December.
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