Over the weekend of Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st May 2026, three students from Southmoor Academy took part in the Inter-County Teesside Box Cup. The competition attracted boxers from across the country, including London, Birmingham, and the Western Counties, with over 100 competitors taking part.
Billy J and Rio, who both train at Sunderland ABC, had been preparing intensively for the event, sharpening their skills in the lead-up to competition. On Saturday, Billy J delivered an all-action performance against a strong North East opponent. After three hard-fought rounds, he was awarded the win, progressing to the final on Sunday. In the final, he faced a tall, skilful boxer but showed excellent determination, following corner advice and applying constant pressure to secure a well-deserved gold medal.
Rio received a bye due to the number of entries in his weight category, taking him straight into the final. Having previously lost to his opponent at the national championships, Rio entered the bout well-prepared and highly focused. He controlled the fight from the start, working tirelessly and keeping his opponent at range throughout all three rounds. At the final bell, Rio was unanimously crowned Teesside Champion.
Year 11 student Riley, who boxes out of Sunderland East End ABC, also competed in the final on Sunday. In a closely contested bout, Riley showed great skill and commitment but narrowly lost via split decision, earning a well-deserved silver medal.
All three boxers represented their clubs and school with professionalism, dedication, and pride, capping off an excellent season of boxing.
