TAUNTON ABC’S Brian Musarurwa won the Western Counties elite Light Welterweight belt in Torquay on Saturday night.

Musarurwa went up a weight class, putting on 3kg to challenge the local favourite Joe Tarrant.

The bout got off to a fast start with both boxers standing toe to toe throwing some extremely hard punches.

Musarurwa was caught early and wobbled, but bit down on his gum shield to finish the round strongly, though the round was awarded to Tarrant.

Musarurwa came out for the second determined and constantly pressured Tarrant with some hard, accurate punching.

The round was still close but it went the way of Musarurwa.

After being told by his corner that it was all on the last round, the Taunton man came out with renewed energy and aggression.

The final round saw some furious exchanges, bringing the crowd to their feet, and Musarurwa landed a cracking left hook that sent Tarrant to one knee.

The referee deemed him not fit to continue, giving the title to the Taunton ABC boxer.

Also on the card was Finlay Hodder, who boxed his first bout for the club and is certainly a name to look out for.

Tickets remain available for Taunton’s first professional boxing show in 25 years, which takes place at Wellsprings Leisure Centre on February 21.

Call 07771 709902 for more information.