Tom Morris, from Tenbury Wells, impresses on boxing debut for Ludlow Amateur Boxing Club (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Tom Morris, from Tenbury Wells, impresses on boxing debut for Ludlow Amateur Boxing Club

12:00pm Sunday 17th March 2013 in Sport By Ian Morgan

TOM Morris swapped cage-fighting for boxing – and made a promising debut.

Morris took on the fight to gain boxing experience as he prepares for a mixed martial arts bout next month.

Morris, from Burford, wasn’t too upset at the defeat - he went straight to work after the fight. He was watched by his dad, Ray Morris, in the show.

The judges gave a unanimous verdict for Essington’s Andrew Owen after three tight rounds.

“I pity the guy whom Tom faces in his next cage fight, because he will be even more determined to win,” said dad Ray.

“I am more keen on boxing than the mixed martial arts. I am proud that Tom has taken on the boxing but he was a bit stiff in the shoulders.

“If he can loosen up a bit more then I am sure it would benefit his boxing.”

Morris was 10th on the 14-fight card at Ludlow Boxing Club’s show last Friday.

His opponent Owen was also making his boxing debut.

Morris’ coach Simon Pearce, who lives in Burford, thought he fought well.

“Tom’s a strong lad and he can be a bit wild at times,” said Pearce.

“Tom showed he can control himself. It was a new experience for Tom.”

Pearce added: “It was tight but Tom needs to improve his boxing skills.”