Getting a kick out of boxing!

TITLE success has kicked in in the ring for boxer John Mills.

The 26-year-old from Sunniside defeated Steve Falter to claim the vacant British cruiserweight crown - but had to do it the hard way.

Fighting in Widnes, the Felling Warriors Kickboxing Club member was twice knocked to the canvas before storming back to win in round three.

His coach Billy Saul said: "John showed a lot of bravery and determination to win the title.

"It was a great victory for him."

Team-mate Toni Phillips hopes to emulate his success in Kent next month.

Phillips, from Windy Nook, takes on champion Louise Orton for the British Featherweight crown.

Saul said: "Toni has prepared very well for the fight and she has a great chance.

"It will be very close as both girls have identical records.

"They have seven wins and no defeats apiece and both have stopped five of their opponents."

The Gateshead boxers have continued to perform well this year after enjoying international success in 2008.

The pair were included in the Great Britain squad for the World Amateur Games in Thailand.

It was the first time they had gained international honours.

They won their chance to take on the world's best in the sport's full contact section after impressing in a Great Britain team trial.

TO feature your team or sport in Grassroots ring Tony Hodgson on (0191) 201 6464, fax him on (0191) 201 6153 or e-mail him at tony.hodgson@ncjmedia.co.uk

CAPTION(S):

TITLE CHANCE: For Toni Phillips TITLE GLORY: For kickboxer John Mills

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