Rachel Ball to take on the world after big win
Rachel Ball is dreaming of success on the world stage after the biggest victory of her fledgling career in overturning the odds live on Sky Sports against Shannon Courtenay.
The Aldridge boxer, who works full-time as a social worker, came out on top 77-75 against previously undefeated Courtenay, who is backed by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn.
And after Ball caught the eye of Hearn in front of the TV cameras in Essex, the 6-1 fighter is ready to take the next step.
Ball, a former kickboxing world champion who had not told work colleges of her career in boxing, said: “I’m still buzzing and it’s nice to be back home now. My phone hasn’t stopped, it’s been crazy, but I’m really grateful for everyone’s support. It’s been lovely. I don’t think it was my best performance. I was confident, but getting the decision is the hard part.
“The people believed in me, I’m just a small-town girl with not many followers, we overturned the bookies.
“Eddie said he wants to work with me again so it’s just seeing what comes next. Hopefully I’ll be back on the big stage soon. It was make or break for my career. I want a world title, to be a champion with a nice big belt to bring home. That’s my dream.”
Ball began on the front foot and struck a fierce opening-round knockdown, but Courtenay – who has built up a significant following – recovered before the boxers exchanged blows throughout in an entertaining contest.
But if was Ball whose arm was raised in an emotional finale for the care worker, who returns to the day job this morning.
Felix Cash stopped Rowley Regis’ Jason Welborn in round five to retain his Commonwealth middleweight title.
