NEON Boxing Academy continues to make waves on the amateur boxing scene, with six athletes stepping into the ring at the First Nations Boxing Championships over the weekend – and delivering standout performances full of heart, hunger and hometown pride.
The event was especially meaningful for local Stradbroke Island boxer Sam Delaney-Law, who made his amateur boxing debut as the main event of the first session, surrounded by a roaring crowd of supporters from Straddie.
Calm under pressure, Sam boxed with composure and confidence well beyond his experience, dominating from the first bell to claim the Indigenous Championship Belt.
It was a powerful debut that showed both skill and spirit – and a night the Straddie community won’t forget.
Next up was Liam Crofts, competing in his first official bout under the Neon banner after a previous exhibition fight.
The Under 19’s boxer put on a masterclass in the 80kg division, outclassing his opponent with sharp combinations and footwork to also claim a Championship Belt.
With just his second-ever fight, Liam impressed the crowd and coaches alike, proving he’s a name to watch in the sport.
Competing in the 70kg division, James Heathcote continued his strong start to his amateur boxing career.
In just his third bout, James faced a taller opponent but used smart movement, aggressive pressure, and sharp inside work to dominate the fight – earning cheers from the crowd and a new crowd nickname, The Bulldog, for his relentless style and never-back-down attitude.
Rounding out Neon’s winners was Kipa “Tha Ripa” Keremete, who once again showed why he’s one of Australia’s elite amateur boxers.
The 70kg Open Division Champion put on a commanding performance from start to finish, using body shots and clean combinations to overwhelm his opponent and secure another Championship belt.
His poise and precision in the ring were a reminder of why he’s one of the most respected athletes in the sport.
Young debutants Koby Garland and Ben McKillop also stepped into the ring for the first time, each showing tremendous courage and energy.
Koby came out firing, landing strong and aggressive shots before a referee DQ ended the bout – a valuable lesson for a passionate young fighter eager to improve.
Heavyweight Ben McKillop also showed promise in a close, hard-fought match that didn’t go his way this time but gave him valuable ring experience for future bouts.
As always, Team Neon’s supporters filled the venue, with an electric crowd cheering every punch and celebrating every step forward.
With so many athletes making their debuts, the Neon cheer squad just got even bigger – and louder!
Looking ahead, it’s another action-packed month for the Redland Bay-based gym.
A free community boxing class will be held at LSKD HQ on Saturday (October 18) from 9 to 10.30am.
Zahara “The Mad Cinderella” Lane will travel north to compete at the Rockhampton Tournament on Saturday, October 25, while the Masters Team – Sarah O’Shea, Susan Marais, Donna Weston, and David Logan – will represent Neon at the Masters Games in Canberra from October 21 to 24.
Australian National Team member Gene Keremete heads overseas next week to compete at the World Boxing Tammer Tournament in Finland from October 31 to November 3.
Meanwhile, Neon’s not-for-profit arm, Punch with Purpose, continues to raise funds to support its athletes, including through the Local Matters fundraiser at Grill’d Victoria Point this month.
