Submitted by Nelson Boxing Club
Nelson’s Riel Martinez held off an early charge by American Blas Magana to earn a unanimous decision Saturday in the main event of a boxing card in Spokane.
Martinez’s jab, counters and distance control broke down an older and more experienced opponent from Quincey, Wash., with more than 80 bouts under his belt. Martinez is now 6-0 since he began competing in the Elite Division this year.
Three other Nelson boxers took part in the event.
Matt Brown earned a third-round TKO victory against Angelo Castro from Kalispel, Mont. Brown’s sharp boxing and angles were too much for his tough opponent who was rescued from further punishment by the referee in the third round.
Sabian Smith lost a close split decision against Andy Garcia from Seattle. Smith landed clean shots and had the better technique, but was outworked by the hyper aggressive Garcia.
Porter Hansen won a dominant unanimous decision against Jordan Avalos from Quincey. After a close first round Hansen found his range and punished his shorter opponent with hard counter rights and left hooks to seal the victory.
Nelson Boxing Club will be hosting a provincial team training camp on March 2 to 3. This will prepare our B.C. Provincial Team for youth and junior nationals, which will be held for March 20 to 24 in Calgary.
Local boxers Milane D’Aurelie, Jahsiah Snow, Hansen and Torin Edmonds have all earned a spot on Team BC for this competition. We are excited to see them shine on the national stage!
READ MORE: Eight days after his brother’s death, Nelson’s Riel Martinez wins boxing title