THE Somerset Stallion, Ryan Wheeler, faced his toughest challenge yet, against Mexican opponent Giovanni Martinez, taking the win by points decision 77-75 after eight rounds.
Originally Ryan was set to face Jamie Speight, looking to take the Southern Area Champion belt. However, the fight was postponed due to Jamie not making weight causing him to lose his title, with no replacement to step forward.
However, a new fight was scheduled against young Giovanni Martinez from Mexico that proved to be Ryan’s toughest fight yet, even getting knocked down early on in the fight.
After the fight Ryan said, “First of all a massive shout out to everybody for the support last night. The number one boxing rule was broken, do not go toe-to-toe with a Mexican.
“Keeping you all on the edge of your seats with a rocky start and going down in the second round, I knew I had work to do. After the knock-down, I woke up and boxed to orders, moving my feet and using my jab, stealing each round after the knock down.
“Big respect to my opponent, Giovanni Martinez, who made it very difficult for me, but more was learnt from that fight than any of my other fights.
“It all came from my heart and dedication, fighting hard to the final bell but I remain undefeated. I hope you were all entertained.I will take this opportunity to thank everyone for the support once more including my sponsors, Rodden Road Cars, Piling Equipment Ltd, The Old Bath Arms, Trainstation Gym Frome, Quick Print MSN, Crew barbers, Albright & Shiny, DH Business Support Ltd, GoGetter Sports, Jo Beale Fitness, Pearns Tree Service, LAC Carpentry, Dixon Construction Company, and RCH Road Management.”