KAYDEN Connolly is still looking for his first victory in boxing after losing his third bout in as many outings.

The 11-year-old fought Craig Mansell in Tewkesbury on Saturday and it was hard to split the pair throughout the contest.

However, it was the much taller Hemel Hempstead boxer that won.

Coach Brian Roberts admitted: “It was a close call.

“Kayden had to do a lot of work at close quarters with hooks and uppercuts, and they sometimes go unnoticed compared to long straight lefts and rights.

“But when you’re that much shorter, that’s what you have to do and Kayden did it well, showing more varied boxing skills with footwork and blocking.

“At the moment he can’t seem to get a nod, but if he keeps improving, things will change.”

Meanwhile, 14-year-old Jordan Rye is now undefeated in three contests following his latest bout against Tewkesbury’s Chris Howe.

Rye was kept at arm’s length in the first round but following stern words by coach Dave Carpenter at the bell, he got much closer to his opponent and backed him up against the ropes.

In the final round, Rye blocked punches more effectively as he got close to Howe, and the former ran out a unanimous points winner.

The Horseshoe Gym is staging a female boxing tournament on Saturday, March 24 for boxers aged 15 and over.

Fighters are set to descend on Next Generation from all over the country for the ABAE Female Boxing Series.

There will be 25-30 contests and the day will start at around 1pm and finish at 9pm. Tickets are on sale at Next Generation or can be bought from Brian Roberts (07960 009472).