Diaz-Prior takes title (From Watford Observer)

Watford competitor claims cruiserweight title at Berkhamsted kickboxing show

1:20pm Friday 1st June 2012 in Local Sport

Watford’s Laz Diaz-Prior was victorious in the main event on Saturday night as he claimed the vacant IKF K1 Southern Area Cruiserweight Title.

Competing on a card of 11 bouts in Berkhamsted, the Shaolin Kickboxing member made light work of opponent Jamie Hopcraft, claiming technical knockout success in the first round.

The 24-year-old, who was recently awarded his black belt, had battled out a draw with Hopcraft last year but came out on top in the rematch thanks to a number of head shots.

He was not the only competitor of local interest in action from the Colindale-based club though.

Making his fight debut, Abbots Langley’s Brandon Lewis astounded the crowd with a display of speed and agility.

A series of devastating leg kicks and jumping knee strikes saw his opponent halted in round three.

Following him into the ring was St Albans competitor Antony Thomas.

Despite suffering from cold and flu, he gave an impressive display of his talents before he was defeated on a tight points decision.

Speaking about the trio’s performances, Kingsley Morgan, Chief Instructor of Shaolin Kickboxing, said: “The boys put in a first class performance and made the club and me very proud.

“All have great futures ahead and were a fantastic advert for the sport. They will go from strength to strength.”