Full Power K-1 Fight Night: The blueprint on how to run a local show

At 4.15 p.m. the Full Power K-1 event commenced and by 8.00 p.m. customers strolled out of the O’Raghallaigh CLG, Drogheda satisfied with what their ticket purchase provided.

When a bout finished, two more combatants readily took to the stage. No delays, no weary eyed fans waiting for another contest to finally begin, just fight after fight.

Robby Martin (Newry) shined in the junior bouts and was awarded victory over Liam McNeil (Full Power).

It was an exhibition of striking and movement skills. Martin controlled the range exceptionally and demonstrated ring intelligence beyond his age.

A name to be remembered.

Youngster Ben Harding (Full Power) warrants recognition for his admirable confidence and showmanship.

As he walked to the ring he performed a cart wheel which lifted the packed audience’s spirits even further.

Harding then completed his task in the ring and defeated game opponent Keelan McEvoy (Newry).

After his performance the kid went to ringside to say thank you to the judge for working on his fight.

A fitting example of the positive impact combat sports can have on young lives.

David Ola (DCU) fought and beat Ross Early (SBG) via split decision in a well matched fight.

It was a spectacle worthy of being a main event.

Innate power was evident as Soloman (DCU) dispatched Darren Cummins (Imagine) within 49 seconds of the first round.

As soon as the bell sounded Soloman chased his prey ruthlessly and sent his opponent to the canvas immediately.

Cummins bravely ascended but after enduring more blows the referee called an end to the beating.

Knees are an effective weapon which was testified by Audrius Norkunas (Ferocity) who punished Podge O’Neill (Full Power) with wincing body attacks.

Norkunas scored a second round stoppage.

Alan Kavanagh (SBG) impressed as he took advantage of his opponent having his chin high to claim a second round TKO.

Another illustration of boxing was exhibited by Paddy Wilkinson (Malahide M.A) who was deadly with his right hand to overpower Cathal Hickey (Phoenix) in round two.

Wahab (Spartan) excelled as he dished out pain to Gary Pentony who showed great courage to survive three rounds against the explosive southpaw.

Experienced fighter Gary Morris exuberated class to outpoint Keith Rulligan (Sanda) who endured some telling shots but always came back with his own.

Weighing only 60KG’s Mickey McCoy (Living) flourished on centre staged and boasted his ominous striking power at his weight.

The main event was a thriller and the crowd played their part to raise the volume when Matthew Whyte (Full Power) entered the cauldron of noise.

Aaron McGuigan (Sanda) was his opponent.

The pace set by the two fighters was maintained throughout the three rounds, a credit to both.

Whyte managed to stay composed and he revelled in an environment where those in attendance vociferously backed his cause.

Deservingly Whyte was granted the decision to end a successful night of combat.

Fairly matched fights, plentiful excitement, talented martial artists and a passionate crowd were all fuelled by promotor Declan Kenna who ran his first show with clockwork precision.

Image Source: allevents.in