Max Wilkinson, a Lympstone ABC boxer, turned the tide at the highly anticipated annual Devon vs Cornwall boxing match.

The match took place on Friday evening at the Holsworthy Leisure Centre.

The nail-biting event saw the Devon County boxing team celebrating a 6 - 5 victory, primarily attributed to Wilkinson's defining performance in the deciding bout of the evening.

A palpable mix of skill, fitness, determination, and an indomitable will to win from county athletes, had kept the massive crowd at the edge of their seats throughout the event.

The intense bouts of triumph, defeat, and hard-earned victories had filled the hall with excitement, with the audience relishing in the feast of athleticism.

The night also saw a mix of results for Lympstone boxers.

Wilkinson's decisive triumph notwithstanding, the contest was balanced at 5 bouts each when he entered the ring.

His rival from St Pirin's ABC, while formidable, did not deter Wilkinson from rising to unveil an impressive victory in a fiercely contested bout.

Wilkinson, on his part, resorted to his sheer determination and exceptional prowess in the ring to win a unanimous decision.

His technique of stepping up the pressure at crucial moments each round had his opponent on the back foot throughout the fight.

His display of well-delivered rear hands and uppercuts, followed by crashing right hooks to the body proved instrumental in deciding the fate of the bout as well as the inter-county middleweight championship.

The match was not just a victory but also a stepping stone for Wilkinson, who plans to take his boxing career to the next level in the upcoming season.

However, the evening was not as rewarding for another boxer, Max Squires from Lympstone ABC, who embraced defeat after a compelling bout with yet another athlete from St Pirin's.

Despite establishing an early lead and maintaining control in the initial two rounds, Squires relinquished the edge in the decisive round which led to his rival's victory.

Undeterred by defeat, Squires showcased immense sportsmanship and earned admiration for his commendable efforts in the ring.

Despite the unfavourable outcome, he did his club and Devon proud with his undying perseverance.

Although a bittersweet event for Lympstone ABC, the spirit of the competition left a lasting impression on the athletes and the spectators alike.