A Maryport born boxing prospect has been hailed as a credit to Just Grind MMA and Fitness Centre.

Gary Taylor boxed his way to a points decision this past weekend despite taking the bout on short notice. Taylor fought a crafty and more experienced opponent in Bobby Shah from Darwen. The bout took place at Stanwix Park in Silloth.

Taylor has some experience under his belt but it was his debut as a Just Grind fighter. Speaking of the lack of camp, Gary's coach Dave Straughton said: "We weren't planning on him fighting till early next year but he was keen as mustard."

Gary faced a bright talent, he said: "the lad wasn't a daft boxer, held onto me a lot and had done a bit so it was a good fight." Like Gary, Shah had a fair amount of prior experience: "his opponent had been a bit of a prospect in the amateurs then been out of the game for a bit" said coach Straughton.

Although he is no stranger to the boxing ring, Taylor has made significant improvements lately, "Dave's really brought me on though since moving clubs, tidied everything up for me and helped me skills wise massively."

Speaking more on his training, Gary said: "I just try to work as hard as I can when I'm in the gym and listen to Dave really and you can't go wrong."

Dave recognises the attitude and work ethic of his fighter "We're all expecting him to have a great career. His attitude's outstanding, he's a great lad to have around the club with the younger lads as well."

Gary enjoys training as much as the coaches appreciate having him there: "love the gym environment just like a family, doesn't matter what ability or age you are, everyone's made welcome."

Next year looks bright for Taylor, who is eager to fight under the Just Grind banner again. "Having a break now over the Christmas period then looking to have an active, successful 2019, get as many fights as possible and see where it goes from there."