Devine wins out in Ireland

Luton fighter Michael Devine got back to winning ways with an emphatic points victory over Latvian opponent Vitalijs Usovs in Ireland on Saturday.
Luton boxer Michael DevineLuton boxer Michael Devine
Luton boxer Michael Devine

The 27-year-old light heavyweight was involved in some close early exchanges before taking control of the four round fight and let go of some heavy shots as the fight entered the second.

There was a raucous crowd present, many of whom had travelled across Ireland to watch Devine, as in the third, he almost had his opponent beaten with a thrilling display of left hooks, uppercuts, body shots and piston like jabs.

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Usovs managed to regain some composure after dropping his gum shield and those extra seconds allowed him to go on the defensive as the Devine onslaught continued and the fight drew to a close.

Devine had his arm raised for the 14th time of his 20 bout career, and a first triumph since December 2014, with his opponent beaten for the first time.

Afterwards, the Luton boxer said: “I almost had him out of there a few times, with hooks and uppercuts, as I could see it in his eyes.

“He was awkward, but it’s just great to be back to winning ways.”

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Devine’s Southern Area title fight scheduled for Portsmouth on July 9 has now been postponed due to his opponent Floyd Moore injuring his hand, but this hasn’t deterred his plans, as he added: “It’s an absolute honour to fight in Ireland in front of these fans and I hope to be back soon, maybe December if Mervyn (Turner, his trainer) allows it as I want to move on and fight for an Irish title.”

Turner himself added: “Michael is a championship fighter, he needs to get more rounds under his belt but I’ve seen massive improvements already.

“We are disappointed with Floyd’s withdrawal for the title fight, but we move on. When the chances come Michael will be ready, we will be ready.”

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