Thunderdome 49 Results From Metro City, Perth, Australia

Credit: Mike O'Hara Dragon Fire Boxing 

Press Release: March 7, 2025 By Dragon Fire Boxing  -  Last Friday (March 14th,) Thunderdome 49 had an exciting night of fights to kick off 2025 for Dragon Fire Promotions.

 

The main event saw Josh Byrne pick up his first state title after defeating Habib Kheriakah in an action-packed war.

 

The card also saw undefeated fighters Ryan Daye and Owen Corrigan pick up wins, as they prepare for bigger opportunities 

 

Josh Byrne claims state title glory with victory over Habib Kheriakah

 

In the main event, Josh Byrne scored a victory over Habib Kheriakah by unanimous decision to claim his first state championship.

 

After winning his first two professional fights last year, Josh Byrne had set his sights on a state title, making it his key goal for 2025. However, it came as a shock to many when the Aussie was given the title shot in the first event of the year .

 

With some alterations to the card, which saw Joel Lewis and Jude Grant withdrawing from their fights, Byrne was given a main event slot for the first time in his short career.

 

Byrne proved that he was worthy of that spot when he claimed the belt  in an absolute barn burner of a fight.

 

The fight started fast, with both men coming at each other with a full head of steam. Kheriakah fought on the front foot swinging wildly, looking to surprise the teenager.

 

Byrne being the more composed of the two, often found a home for his lead right hand whether that be a jab or hook.

 

Midway into the fight, Byrne had more success when he was throwing the left hook to the body and even hurt Kheriakah in the final minute of round three.

 

In the later rounds, the hooks to the body from Byrne were having more of an effect on his opponent who looked to be running out of ideas.

 

Byrne’s cardio had also held up well, as he kept throwing flurries of crosses and hooks until the final bell.

 

When the scorecards were read, it was Josh Byrne who was given the lopsided unanimous decision victory and the WA State Welterweight Championship.

 

With time on his side and a state title on his resume, the future looks bright for this young and exciting prospect.

 

Owen Corrigan defeats Liang Wang to remain undefeated 

 

In the co-main event, Ireland’s Owen Corrigan kept his undefeated record intact with a decision victory over Liang Wang.

 

In November of last year, Owen “Bomber” Corrigan made an emphatic statement in his professional debut after scoring a knockout victory over King Fahd.

 

Looking to carry on his momentum, Corrigan took on China’s Liang Wang. Although this fight was a lot harder than his debut, the Irishman was able to win the competitive bout by decision.

 

For the first two rounds, Corrigan used jabs and lead hooks to dictate the tempo, while using his superior movement to stay out of range.

 

Being the smaller man, Liang tried to pressure the Irish boxer but he didn't land anything flush apart from a right overhand at the end of the second round.

 

Liang had more success with his pressure in round three, where he started to back his opponent into the ropes. 

 

In response to the attack, Corrigan start to move his opponent backwards in the fourth round, but Wang did well to fire back before the final bell.

 

Before the cards were read out, most of the fans in attendance were wondering how the judges would score the fight. 

 

Whether it was Corrigan’s efficiency or Wang’s aggression that secured the win.

 

But Owen Corrigan was revealed as the winner by unanimous decision, to a stunning reception from the Irish boxing fans in attendance.

 

The win for the Irishman advanced his record to 2-0.

 

Ryan Daye runs through Rivo Kundaming to prepare for Tim Tszyu undercard 

 

Earlier in the card Ryan Daye remained undefeated with a win over Rivo Kundaming.

 

The win gives Daye a huge momentum boost as he prepares to fight on the Tim Tszyu vs Joey Spencer undercard in Newcastle next month.

 

After his come from behind KO victory over Fano Kori back in August, Perth’s Ryan Daye was seen as a fighter to watch in the Australian boxing scene.

 

Last month, it was announced the Perth native would be getting his shot under the bright lights over east, by fighting on Tim Tszyu’s undercard.

 

Before that fight however, Daye needed to make a statement against Indonesia’s Rivo Kundaming and he did just that with a complete demolition of his opponent.

 

The fight started very aggressively from Daye, who did a great job of mixing up his shots and staying unpredictable.

 

Throughout the first round, Daye entered into the pocket with jabs before ripping his opponent to the body and it was clear to see that Kundaming had no answer for the onslaught.

 

Daye opened the second round with another flurry to the body which dropped his Indonesian opponent to the ground.

 

As Kundaming was wincing in pain, the referee stopped the fight before he finished his count, giving Daye yet another stoppage victory.

 

In his post-fight interview, Daye revealed to the fans in attendance that he was fighting in Newcastle stating that “he was taking every opportunity with both hands.”

 

It is safe to say that Daye’s next fight will be the biggest of his career and with this win, he is riding the perfect wave of momentum.

 

Full Card Results

 

Josh Byrne defeated Habib Kheriakah by unanimous decision the win the WA State Welterweight Championship 

 

Owen Corrigan defeated Liang Wang by unanimous decision 

 

Billy Quincroft defeated Alex Muster by first-round KO

 

Jye Chin defeated Jack Briggs by unanimous decision

 

Charlie Burca defeated Shomeek Saha by unanimous decision 

 

Bilal Seidu defeated Will Cleggett by majority decision 

 

Sam Rennie defeated Dedi Imprax by third-round KO

 

Binny Folan defeated Rusty Oates by split decision 

 

Gabriel Ichkanian defeated Darren Quincroft by second-round TKO

 

Ryan Daye defeated Rivo Kundaming by second-round KO

 

Devon Kelly defeated Tanaka Saburi by split decision

 

Riley Sparks defeated Marvelous Aligba by unanimous decision (Exhibition Fight)

 

Rigor Angles defeated Mitch Arnold by unanimous decision

Material Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing/ Photo Courtesy of: Mike O’Hara Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

 

“A Belt Is What I've Wanted My Whole Life” Josh Byrne Fired Up For His First Title Fight

Press Release: March 1, 2025 By Dragon Fire Boxing - On March 14, Dragon Fire Boxing Promotions hits the Metro City nightclub for the first time this year for Thunderdome 49.

 

Credit: Mike O'Hara

In the main event, Undefeated prospect Jude Grant takes on his first international opponent when he fights Shi Hong Jun of China.  

 

Before the headliner, Jude’s training partner Josh Byrne has his first shot at a state championship against Habib Kheirkhah.

 

When asked what it felt like to get the call for the title shot, Byrne stated that he was excited to complete one of his boxing goals so quickly.

“When I got the call about fighting for the state title I was stoked” Byrne said. “It's what I've wanted all the way since amateurs, I've never actually won a belt.

“I've always got a medal or a trophy, but a belt is what I've wanted my whole life and I'm going to make it happen.”

In his last fight Byrne fought Bima Prokosar, in what was an action-packed encounter.

Although he came out victorious with a lopsided decision, the Aussie feels that there were still lessons to take away from his performance, mainly regarding the communication with his corner.

“I feel that I need to listen to the corner a bit more” Byrne revealed.

“[My coaches] can see a lot more about what's going on than what I can, they were telling me to go more to the body and at the time it didn't really come across.

“When I sat back and went through the fight with them, they said ‘you need to open your ears a bit more and listen to us because we can see a lot more than what you can.’

“I feel that I will definitely improve on that in this fight and hopefully I'll come away with a knockout.”

In what is said to be the biggest fight of his young career so far, Byrne will fight Habib Kheirkhah. An aggressive fighter who has had experience fighting the best that Big Rigs gym has to offer, having fought Jordan LaRuccia, Jude Grant and Joel Lewis.

 

With the experience from his teammates, Byrne has said that he has been given pointers regarding how to approach the match up.

“From everything that I’ve been told, he's a very forward guy” Byrne told. “I expect him to bring the action to me and I know I will match that.”

The advice given to Byrne is amongst the best in WA, as it has recently been announced that Jude Grant could be fighting in the WBC Grand Prix, a tournament designed to find the next big star in boxing.

Although the teenager has limited experience in the sport with a 2-0 record, he looks up to his training partners and uses their early success as inspiration to go as far as he can.

“I would love to fight in something like the Grand Prix.” Byrne said “I've been speaking to Tony [Tolj] about it, but I just don’t have quite enough experience yet.

“Something like that will definitely happen once I get a few more fights under my belt.”

With the right training partners and coaches around him, Josh Byrne is an exciting local prospect and perhaps will be involved in a high stakes tournament of his own within the next two to three years.

Material Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing/ Photo Courtesy of: Mike O'Hara - Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Jude Grant On His First International Opponent And Potential WBC Grand Prix Inclusion

Press Release: February 8, 2025 By Dragon Fire Boxing-  “I'm fully confident I can hang with anyone”

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

On March 14, DragonFire Promotions hosts their first event of 2025 at the Metro City Night Club. The headliner features the return of the undefeated Jude Grant, who takes on his first international opponent Shi Hong Jun.

 

After capping off a successful 2024 campaign by winning all three of his fights, Perth’s Jude Grant looks to pick up where he left off when he fights in his second main event in a row.

 

When asked about his positioning on the card, Grant expressed his love for being in the spotlight.

 

“I really enjoyed being under the bright lights” Grant said, “I'm feeling confident and I thought I learnt a lot from the first time I had the status as the main event. 

 

“I'm looking to take that experience into the next fight.”

 

In his first main event contest, Grant faced Fano Kori. Despite winning by unanimous decision, Kori had success in the pocket, as his brawler approach gave Grant problems which he had to overcome.

 

Looking back, Grant said that he felt the adversity was good for his growth as a fighter.

 

“I think as a fighter it's important to have tests” Grant admitted “it's important to see what you're made of.

 

“I think it sort of removed a lot of doubt for me, I know that I can hang with that upper echelon, especially in WA boxing.

 

“I'm fully confident I can hang with anyone.”

 

Grant was originally scheduled to face China’s number one ranked Junior Middleweight Cheng Su, who has a lot of experience on a bigger stage, having fought multiple times for Asia-Pacific and International titles.

 

However this past Wednesday, It was announced that Su had pulled out of the fight with a broken foot and is now being replaced by his countryman Shi Hong Jun.

 

Although the last-minute alteration is unfortunate, Jun will definitely pose a challenge to the Aussie given he has nothing to lose.

 

Should Grant come out of this fight victorious, it would set him up perfectly for what could potentially be a fast track to the big time. 

Grant’s manager Tony Tolj has nominated him along with his teammate Joel Lewis to potentially take part in the WBC Riyad Season Grand Prix which looks to “discover the next generation of boxing stars.”

 

The tournament is said to only feature fighters under the age of 26 with no more than 15 professional fights, with the included weight classes being Featherweight, Super Lightweight, Middleweight and Heavyweight.

 

As 128 boxers in total are fighting for glory, the grand prix will be divided into five events throughout the year. With the quarter finals and finals being scheduled for eight and ten rounds respectively.

 

When asked about potentially competing in the tournament, Grant had high praise for Riyad Season and their innovations in the sport.

 

“I think the [grand prix] concept's amazing” Jude commented, “I think what Riyadh Season are doing is incredible for the game, they’re really changing the whole landscape of boxing. 

 

“I'd be super excited to get on a card like that in Saudi Arabia. It would just be such a great experience. 

 

“I think if I were to win that tournament it would mean that I announced myself on the international stage, but I'm not looking past my next fight at all. 

 

“I think that is my first step to really announce myself. If I was to win the tournament, which I fully believe I've got the capabilities to do, it would mean everything.”

 

With the exciting prospect of Saudi fights potentially on the horizon for the Perth fighter, the future looks bright for Jude Grant. However, he cannot overlook the challenge that lies ahead on March 14.

 

Jude Grant fights Shi Hong Jun at the Metro City Night Club on March 14, you can watch the full event on LiveCombatSports.com.au.

Material  and Photo courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing  Used with permission. 

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

‘I still feel like I've got more to achieve in this sport’ Andrew Moloney sets his sights on World Championship glory

Press Release: December 12,  2024 By Lewis Moss and Dragon Fire Boxing  -

Credit: Dragon Fore Boxing 

This Sunday at the Melbourne Pavillion, Andrew Moloney looks to get back on track when he takes on the experienced Jakrawut Majungoen.

 

A win for the Aussie has the potential to open doors for the future, as he sets his sights on another world title.

 

In his last fight, Moloney was on the wrong end of a controversial decision at the hands of Pedro Guevara for the Interim WBC Super Flyweight title. The disappointment of this fight resulted in Molony announcing his retirement.

 

Moloney says that although the loss was a very tough pill to swallow, he has moved past that night as he looks to get back on the horse.

“I was extremely frustrated that night” Moloney said. “I really felt like everything we planned on doing in that fight went exactly to plan, I felt like I was in total control.

“My corner would basically tell me to keep doing what I was doing and I was very relieved at the end of the fight as I felt like things went my way.

“To have the decision read out as Guevara winning the fight, I was honestly just shocked.

“On that night, I announced that that would be my last fight. I'd had enough of giving everything to the sport and getting nothing back. Winning that fight for the interim world title would have opened up the doors to some really big fights for me.

“It was a pretty tough pill to swallow, it took a bit of time to move past and refocus on the future in the sport but here we are.

“This Sunday I get a chance to put that behind me and move forward with my career and hopefully open up the doors for some big fights in 2025.”

Going into his previous fight, Moloney revealed that he had torn his bicep nine days prior. During rehabilitation, his focus was a chance at redemption against his Mexican foe.

However, due to the urgent need for a unification fight, the WBC would not allow the rematch to go forward.

While looking at other pathways in the Super Flyweight division, Moloney and his management noticed a lot of movement, Particularly in two of the four sanctioning bodies. 

“I went through a pretty tough week to get to [the Guevara] fight after tearing my bicep around nine days out.” Moloney told.

“Throughout rehab, my whole motivation was to have a rematch with Guevara and my team were in talks with him to organize that rematch.

“Unfortunately, the WBC mandated that he fought for the full world title against Jesse Rodriguez, basically putting a halt on the rematch happening. [It] took a little bit of time to refocus my goals and work out what was next.

“Thankfully, there's been a little bit of movement in the division, particularly in the IBF and a little bit in the WBO as well, where it looks like I could potentially get a shot at a world title in the not too distant future.”

Moloney is ranked the eighth best Super Flyweight in the world by the IBF and seventh in the WBO, with the former having a lot more room for opportunity.

 

In the IBF, the title along with the first and second ranking positions are currently vacant. On the same day that Moloney makes his return, the third and fourth ranked Super Flyweights Willibaldo Garcia and Rene Calixto Bibiano fight each other for the IBF crown.

 

The Aussie says he has his eye on that match up, potentially facing the winner in the future.

“For me, I want to be in the big fights” Moloney told.

“I want to be fighting for world titles, my goal in this sport is to be world champion. I’m trying to plan and map out the fastest route to that and it looks to be the IBF.

“I've watched footage of [Willibaldo Garcia and Rene Calixto Bibiano] and I'm very confident that I have what it takes to beat either one of them, that’s definitely the route I'd like to go.

“I'm hoping that maybe after this fight that I'll be able to be in an eliminator for an IBF title shot, that is, if we can't get the winner of that title fight straight away.”

But before he can think about an eliminator fight, he needs to get past Jakrawut Majungoen, an experienced fighter in the Asian boxing scene.

Having already fought seven times this year and winning five of them by stoppage, the Thai fighter looks to be a good test for Moloney.

“He's a good fighter. He's very experienced” Moloney said.

“He had a very good fight against Daigo Higa quite a few years ago, he gave Higa a very hard fight so I've prepared well.”

“This is a must-win fight for me, so I've prepared very hard. I believe if I fight to my best ability, then I should win this fight no problem.

“But I have to make sure that I'm on my game and I perform at my best.”

Although Moloney has been at boxing’s highest level for a number of years, he is not quite satisfied with his career just yet.

With a world title on his mind, he will stop at nothing to achieve his goal.

“I really still feel like I've got more to achieve in this sport.” Moloney said.

“I've given my life to this sport for 20 years, I'm not satisfied with what I've achieved just yet.

“I really want to get my hands on at least one more world title, that's my complete focus at the moment.

“Hopefully with the way things move after this fight, it won't be too long before I'm back fighting for world titles and hopefully that's next year.”

Despite the disappointment in his last fight, Moloney looks rejuvenated and has a clear focus for the future. On fight night, Andrew will leave no stone unturned to stay on track and retain focus on his world title ambitions.

Material Courtesy of: Lewis Moss/Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing used with permission 

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Belated Thunderdome 48 Results: Grant Remains Undefeated

Press Release: December 4, 2024 By Dragon Fire Boxing-  Last Friday night (November 29th), Dragon Fire Boxing Promotions closed off a successful year with an amazing card at Metro City Nightclub.

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

 

In a night full of entertaining fights, stunning knockouts and emerging prospects, the Perth based promotion has left local boxing fans excited for 2025.

 

Jude Grant defeats Fano Kori to remain unbeaten in back and forth encounter

In the main event of the evening Jude Grant made an emphatic statement when he defeated Fano Kori by Unanimous Decision.

 

The win advances the Aussie’s perfect record to 8-0 to mark the biggest win of his career, as it potentially sets him up for some massive fights next year.

 

With a high reputation and three state titles in his short boxing career, Grant was already viewed as one of the best prospects WA has to offer.

 

His opponent Fano Kori, was seen as Grant’s toughest fight to date. Despite some challenges on the night, when the lights were at their brightest the Big Rigs fighter came out victorious.

 

The first two rounds started off very technical. Grant perfectly worked his jab and used angles to evade Kori, whilst pressing the action when his opponent hit the ropes.

 

In round three following advice from his corner, Grant began to double up his jab, setting up his straight left which he connected at will.

 

Given the fact that Grant appeared to be the more polished boxer of the two, the obvious game plan for Kori was to get on the inside and make it a brawl.

 

In the fourth and fifth rounds, the tide was starting to turn. Kori was having more success in the pocket, landing flusher to the body and head receiving a huge reaction out of those in attendance.

 

In round six Grant seemed to have caught a second wind and regained his composure, starting to fight back through his use of the jab.

 

With the pressure starting to mount on Kori, his mouthpiece fell out multiple times, prompting the referee to deduct a point from the Cuban Boxing Club fighter.

 

Knowing he needed to finish strong, Kori started to work the body in round seven and yet another point deduction was handed out by the referee. This time it was against Grant for repetitive holding.

 

With both fighters having a point deducted in the sixth and seventh, they realised that the fight could be hanging on the final round.

 

The two men came out firing with Grant landing the better power shots. Connecting with a couple of left hands that seem to slightly stagger his opponent before the final bell.

 

As the scores were being counted, many fans were unsure on who would come out on top. Either the technical prowess of Grant or the aggression from Kori

 

When the cards were read, it was Jude Grant who took the unanimous decision which received a thunderous roar from the crowd.

 

Given this fight was the first time we had seen Grant in some sort of danger, It was very impressive to see how the Aussie responded. Showing lots of heart to swing the fight back in his favour to get the win.

 

Billy Quinncroft defeated Aaron Treacy in entertaining cruiserweight clash

In the Co-Main Event, Billy Quinncroft edged Aaron Treacy in a thrilling barnburner that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.

 

The two Perth fighters brought a combined audience of over 100 friends and family members to the Metro City Nightclub to witness their pro debuts.

 

The fight started off at a rapid pace with both men going full steam ahead. Treacy often tried entering the pocket with a tight guard.

 

His opponent Quinncroft intercepted Treacy’s approach with short uppercuts, as well as an overhand right early into the round that appeared to slightly stagger Treacy.

 

In the second round Quinncroft’s corner advised their fighter to work his jab more, which he did effectively before stunning his opponent with a right cross.

 

Treacy tried his best to land an overhand right, but Quinncroft was able to use his reach to avoid the attack.

 

Round three saw both fighters land clean shots, Treacy was visibly fatigued from the aggression he displayed in the earlier rounds, but showed a lot of heart by fighting off the ropes.

 

In the last round, Treacy knew he needed a knockout to win. He charged forward to engage his opponent and take control of the fight, but Quinncroft landed a huge punch that sent Treacy stumbling towards him.

 

Although both men were exhausted they were still firing until the final bell.

 

After four rounds, Quinncroft was given the unanimous decision victory to a standing ovation for the crowd. 

 

Owen Corrigan breezes past King Fahd in pro debut

Earlier in the night, Owen Corrigan came out victorious in his highly anticipated professional debut.

 

Coming into the fight with a strong reputation in the amateur ranks, Ireland’s Owen Corrigan was ready to make the jump to the professional scene and he made a statement with his quick win over King Fahd.

 

The first round started off slow, with Corrigan testing the waters by flicking his jab. Fahd tried to rush in but he simply had no answer for the Irishman's superior reach.

 

The large reach difference was the main story of the first round, until Corrigan caught his overly aggressive opponent with a stiff jab that put him to the canvas.

 

After Fahd answered the count Corrigan tried to finish the fight with a flurry of punches, but the round concluded.

 

After much of the same story in the second round, Corrigan caught Fahd with a straight right hand that sent him into the ropes for another knockdown.

 

Fahd showed heart by answering the count but he was dropped yet again by a vicious flurry, prompting his corner to throw in the towel to give Owen Corrigan the TKO victory.

 

With a very impressive showing in his debut it will be very interesting to see what's next for the Irishman.

 

REST OF THE CARD

 

Adam Milnes DEFEATED Jack Thompson (Unanimous Decision)

 

Bilal Sideu DEFEATED Cameron Moffat (KO ROUND 1)

 

Chichi Omenihu DEFEATED Rivo Kundimang (KO ROUND 3)

 

Mitch Arnold DEFEATED Emani Montgomery (TKO ROUND 3)

 

Sam Rennie DEFEATED Dedi Elite (Unanimous Decision)

 

Beejay Boonket DEFEATED Jastas Kasiano (SPLIT DECISION)

 

Bahtiyar Sonyol vs Ringor Angeles ENDED IN A MAJORITY DRAW

 

EXHIBITION FIGHTS

 

Tyson Zenchich DEFEATED Marvelous Aligba (Split Decision)

 

Riley Sparks DEFEATED Kyran Mailey (Unanimous Decision)

 Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Thunderdome 48 - Jude Grant vs Fano Kori

Press Release: November 23, 2024 By Dragon Fire Boxing-  

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

On November 29, Dragonfire Promotions once again hits Metro City Night Club for its final show of the year.

 

In the main event, the undefeated Jude Grant aims to prove why he is one of the hottest prospects in Australia when he takes on the hard hitting veteran Fano Kori.

 

In his short boxing career spanning just over two years, Grant has established himself as one for the future.

 

Using his natural speed, superb foot movement and advanced ring IQ for his age, the Perth fighter has built up an undefeated resume of seven wins collecting three state titles along the way.

 

The young gun has picked up two impressive victories in 2024 and he looks to carry his momentum into the new year.

 

In his last fight, Grant picked up his second stoppage victory defeating Benny Tamaela. He aims to close off his impressive year with a statement victory over Kori who is said to be his toughest challenge to date.

 

Since his debut in 2016, Fano Kori has established himself as a key figure in the Perth boxing scene. With his fan friendly style, Kori always brings the action which make his fights must see for any boxing fan.

 

Riding a victory of 8-8-1, The Cuban Boxing Club fighter has been in the ring with some of Australia’s most prominent boxing names, such as Jordan LaRuccia and Ben Mahoney. 

 

In his last outing, Kori was unlucky to be on the losing end against Ryan Daye Last August. Coming up short in the back and forth encounter by stoppage, despite being ahead on two of the judges’ scorecards.

 

Next Friday, the veteran looks to get back on track in his pursuit of a State or Australasian title. A win over Grant will most definitely put him back on that path.

 

After exploring different weight classes, Grant has taken this fight at Junior Middleweight one of his preferred weight classes where his speed and footwork will be more of a factor. 

 

Kori will present a different type of danger and grit, at a level that Grant has not had to deal with before, with his power and athleticism most definitely being key in determining the outcome.

 

If Grant is victorious over his opponent, it takes him one step closer to his goal of an Aussie title fight in 2025.

 

With high stakes for both fighters, this bout is one that Perth fans absolutely cannot miss.

 

Grant vs Kori takes place on the November 29 at Metro City Night Club and is streaming on Live CombatSports.com.au.

 Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved. 

Belated Thunderdome 47 Results From Perth, Australia

Press Release: August 28, 2024 By Dragon Fire Boxing-  Thunderdome 47 (Friday, August 23rd) had exciting night of fights once again, as fans were treated to a card filled with rising prospects and stunning knockouts.

 

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

The main event of the evening saw Ryan Daye score a stunning highlight reel KO over Fano Kori to capture WBC Gold.

 

The card also saw undefeated fighters Jude Grant and Josh Byrne impress once again, as well as fan favourite Joel Lewis bouncing back from his first defeat.

 

Ryan Daye Defeats Fano Kori

 

In the headline fight, Ryan Daye scored a huge knockout victory against Fano Kori in what was an extremely back and forth encounter between the two men.

 

Debuting in 2022, Ryan Daye had burst onto the Perth boxing scene and rose up the ranks quickly. Taking his opponents resume into consideration, this fight against Kori was most definitely his toughest to date.

 

But on the night, the Aussie passed that test in stunning fashion.

 

The fight started off very calculated with both fighters looking for openings, Daye looked to counter his opponent who was the more aggressive fighter.

 

The aggression from Kori carried over into the second round. Despite establishing a strong jab early, Daye struggled to find his timing against the awkward fighter.

 

Kori on the other hand was timing Daye well, as he was correctly picked his shots and entered into range at the right time.

 

Daye took control in the third round, as his jab had more of an impact. Although Kori landed some hard punches, Daye stood his ground and covered up nicely.

 

For the fourth and fifth rounds, the action was very back and forth.

 

Being the much more polished boxer, Daye continued to use his superior footwork to his advantage, as Kori kept up his wild onslaught of hard power shots that would land on multiple occasions.

 

As Kori would land the more damaging shots, many fans in attendance were wondering how the fight was being scored by the judges at ringside.

 

Kori landed multiple hooks to the body to start the sixth round. Although Kori was still aggressive, it was clear to see that he was slowing down.

 

Despite the onslaught from his opponent, Daye remained composed as the fight entered the seventh, making this bout with Kori the longest of his career so far.

 

After yet another trade off in the seventh round, Daye staggered Kori with a big right hand with thirty seconds to go. As Kori tried to move away, Daye connected with a huge right cross that sent his opponent crashing to the canvas.

 

Kori was unable to answer the count of ten, giving Daye the highlight KO win.

 

After the fight it was reported that Daye was down on the judges’ scorecards, having only won two rounds before the start of the seventh.

 

The come from behind KO victory for the Aussie moved his undefeated record to 5-0, whilst awarding him the WBC Silver Australasian Super Welterweight title.  

 

With a WBC title in the bag early into his career the future looks bright for Ryan Daye, who has become the second man to beat Fano Kori inside the distance.

 

Joel Lewis Defeats Habib Kherikhah

In the co-main event, Joel Lewis defeated Habib Kherikhah in devastating fashion in the third round to capture the WBC Silver Australasian Super Lightweight title. 

 

Coming into the fight, Lewis had suffered his first defeat against Mahdi Sarbaz in Bangkok two months prior. Needing a statement win, Lewis was matched up against a familiar foe in Habib Kherikhah and the Perth native delivered with yet another spectacular performance.

 

The fight started off very slow. Lewis showed a lot of discipline in his approach by using feints to make Kherikhah enter the pocket, while finding the right time to explode with power shots.

 

Lewis started to utilise his jab and uppercut more in the second round, as Kherikhah started to press the action in a wild manner.

 

Despite the pressure from his opponent, Lewis was able to still be effective whilst maintaining his distance.

 

After 30 seconds of the third round, Kherikhah ran into a huge counter right hand that sent him crashing to the canvas.

 

Although Kherikhah answered the count, Lewis finished the fight with a barrage of punches which prompted the referee to stop the fight.

 

The win for Lewis moves his record to 5-1, in what was a great way to respond to his first professional loss

 

Josh Byrne Defeats Bima Prakosa

Earlier in the night, Josh Byrne was victorious in his second professional fight by defeating Bima Prakosa.

 

After easily winning his debut fight against Mitch Arnold three months prior, Byrne looked to stay active in the Perth boxing scene by taking a fight with international opponent Bima Prakosa.

 

Although the Indonesian showed a lot of heart and toughness, It was simply not enough to deal with the Big Rig’s fighter.

 

The first round started off aggressively with Byrne pushing the action. Prakosa was able to find a home for his right hook in the early goings, but it did little to affect the Aussie.

 

Towards the end of the round, Byrne does a good job of roughing up Prakosa with vicious body shots

 

Prakosa started to show signs of fatigue in the second round. With the pace of the fight starting to slow down, Byrne started to find a home for his punches on his unbalanced opponent.

 

The feeling in the arena was that Byrne was going to finish his opponent easily in the third round, however that was not the case.

 

Although he was clearly losing the bout, Prakosa threw everything he had at his Aussie opponent. For the next two rounds Byrne threw multiple head and body punches, but Prakosa refused to go down as the fight shockingly went the distance.

 

Despite Prakosa’s brave effort Josh Byrne secured a lopsided unanimous decision victory.

 

The victory for Byrne moves his professional record to 2-0. Although the fight was tougher than most expected, it is still good to see the 18-year-old get four more rounds as he moves forward in his career.

 

Jude Grant Defeats Benny Tamaela

 

Jude Grant maintained his perfect record as he defeated Benny Tamaela, in what was the second stoppage victory of his boxing career.

 

Coming off his third state title win, Grant stayed in his preferred weight class to take on the first international opponent in Benny Tamaela.

 

The fight started off with Tamaela attempting to rough up his opponent, but Grant was able to use his reach well as he attacked the Indonesian with hard punches to the body.

 

The second round commenced with the Aussie pressing his opponent onto the ropes. Although Tamaela would try to swing his way out of the corner, Grant would always be at the perfect range to move out of danger and punish his opponent with counters.

 

After a well-timed right cross Tamaela covered up and fell to the canvas. Grant tried to close the show but the Indonesian was able to survive.

 

The third round saw Tamaela desperately swinging at Grant with no balance, whilst the Aussie was connecting at will.

 

As the round went on, Tamaela started to break down and after Grant landed a flurry of shots against his cradling opponent, the referee stopped the fight declaring Grant the winner by TKO.

 

With yet another impressive win under his belt, it is only a matter of time until Perth’s golden boy gets a shot over east or perhaps even overseas.

Material Courtesy and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Jude Grant Locked In For Thunderdome 47 Aug 23

Press Release: August 15, 2024 By Dragon Fire Boxing - On August 23, DragonFire Promotions hits the Metro City nightclub once again for Thunderdome 47, headlined by two WBC title fights.

 

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Before the main fights, Undefeated prospect Jude Grant takes the stage for the second time this year when he faces Indonesia’s Benny Tamaela.

 

When speaking to the Perth fighter, Grant said that he was ready to go for his first international opponent.

 

“I'm very confident,” Grant said. “I've been training hard, sparring some of the best fighters in the state. I feel more than prepared.”

 

In his last fight Grant disposed of Mitchell Arnold in a very lopsided fight, winning every round on the judges’ scorecard in his decision victory.

 

The win contested in the Super Middleweight division, earned Grant his third state title, having already collected belts at Middleweight and Super Welterweight.

 

When asked about his exploration of different weight divisions, Grant said the main reason behind his decision making was to stay active.

 

“I definitely prefer to be at middle weight or a super welterweight.” Grant revealed

 

“At this stage of my career, I just want to stay active and fight whoever gets put in front of me and that's what I've been prepared to do so far.

 

“I got Mitch (Arnold) on one day's notice because my other opponent pulled out.       

 

“It was a bit of a change -up, but I feel confident that I can beat anyone on any night and I was prepared to demonstrate that.”

 

Grant’s upcoming fight against Benny Tamaela will be his first opponent that resides outside Australia.

 

Grant however, takes inspiration from his teammate Jordan LaRuccia who defeated his international opponent Wellem Reyek with ease back in February.

 

“I believe he'll bring grit, so it’ll be a real test” Grant said. “I feel like I have the skill to beat anyone, and that's what I want to demonstrate.”

 

Although he isn’t overlooking his upcoming opponent, the Aussie has detailed his plans going into the next year.

 

At his young age activity is a key factor whilst on the path to bigger and better things in the sport.

 

“It’s a big goal for me to fight the best over East” Grant told. I want to stay as active as I can.

 

“I want to fight at least once more this year, maybe even twice, depending on if we can get opponents in.

 

“Hopefully I can fight for an Aussie title in 2025.”

 

Jude is yet another example of the talent in West Australian Boxing and the future most definitely looks bright.

 

Jude Grant fights Benny Tamaela at the Metro City Night Club on August 23rd.

 

 

Material Courtesy and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Alex Winwood On The Brink Of Greatness With Key Bout In Perth

Press Release: August 14, 2024 By Dragon Fire Boxing and Jarred Cross- 

When Noongar boxer Alex Winwood steps into the ring next month, one step away from the WBA Super World Minimum belt and Australian record as the fastest man to a world title, it's a chance for him to "make that little kid proud".

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

That's his teenage self - 15 years old and taking the plunge into what might prove a historic career after giving footy away.

"From a small gym in Mandurah in a tin shed…now I'm rubbing shoulders with the best of the athletes in the country and in the world," Winwood told National Indigenous Times on being named a finalists NAIDOC Sportsperson of the Year, which he went on to win, in June.

At Perth's HBF Stadium on September 7, Winwood will meet Thailand's 24-0, eight-year reigning champ Thammanoon Niyomtrong - also known by his ringname Knockout CP Freshmart.

On the fight announcement in July, Winwood said "life was a dream" just shy of two years from his professional debut.

Along the way to a 4-0 undefeated record against proven opponents has come Australian and the WBC International minimumweight title.

The former Olympian and Commonwealth Games representative made his title fight opponent's homelands the base of a training camp to prepare, joining Thai fighter OPBF light flyweight champ and WBO no.4-rated Thanongsak Simsri.

"(It was) pretty much the best sparring situation," Winwood told National Indigenous Times on Thursday.

"He was very similar to our opponent…invaluable for us to be there and work with him".

The coming weeks are all about mentality and approach.

Winwood said he's going "full-bore" at present with 12-round sparring, aerobic training and mental preparation ahead of a taper closer to go-time

"He's looking fantastic" Winwood's trainer Angelo Hyder said.

"I was extremely happy by the time we left (Thailand)", he said, ahead of a rotation of international training partners arriving.

"We're just going to sharpen him up. Each of those guys has a different skill set. We utilise some for the hardest sparring, for the more skilled sparring".

Hyder said they're "setting the traps" and "developing the tricks" to "lure this guy in and knock him out".

The tried and tested method of building a pedigree against "tomato cans" - that's journeyman with less glossy records, is worlds away from Winwood's approach to demanding attention taking on world-class fighters.

That's according to Brett Bonetti, who has been ringside on the microphone commentating Winwood's swift rise.

Bonetti sees a "generational talent" in the making, and one who's "made it look easy" so far.

"He's one of the best I've ever seen do it out of the blocks," he said.

"He's got the opportunity to create history and get to a world title, two fights faster than Jeff Fenech did it (in his seventh professional fight almost 40 years ago). I believe he's going to do it."

Despite the opportunity ahead of him, Winwood said he's not letting the occasion get the better of him.

From his debut fight in November 2022 to a world title shot, there's been no room for shying away from taking every chance at chasing the dream and getting to the brink of the journey he set out.

"I don't like losing," Winwood said.

"The risk (fighting high-rated opponents) for me has always been the same and the reward to get to this point has been the same.

"To fight for a world title as fast as we have (got here) - I'm just fully embracing it every day."

Winwood said after facing uncertainties front-on, overcoming hurdles and with the knowledge and experience he's got now, the message to his teenage self is "be fearless and challenge yourself at every point".

"I hope I make that little kid proud," he said.

Winwood will challenge Knockout CP Freshmart at Perth's HBF Stadium on September 7 - tickets available online.

Material Courtesy of Jarred Cross/Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.