Shannon Courtenay hailed the “crazy” support after getting her professional career off to an impressive start with a unanimous points victory last night.

The Abbots Langley fighter was in command from the outset of her bantamweight contest against Romanian Cristina Busuioc at the Copper Box Arena and won all four rounds in a convincing performance.

“I wanted to get her out of there, but I enjoyed myself and that’s the main thing,” Courtenay said afterwards.

“The support was crazy, I think the whole of Watford has got behind me.”

Awarded her professional licence in January, the former amateur fought confidently from the first bell, serving notice of her intent with a left hook before landing some good rights in the opening round.

Courtenay remained on the front foot in round two, with more good work to Busuioc’s head and body before a combination forced the Romanian to hold on.

More positive work followed in round three as the Watford fighter used her speed to remain out of trouble. And while Busuioc came out positively for the final round, her opponent soon resumed control as she sought to finish the contest inside the distance.