Manx professional boxer Michael ‘Ozzy’ Osborne returned to winning ways last week with an assured and skilful performance.

He claimed a unanimous points victory over heavyweight opponent Tommy King at Rainton Meadows Arena in Houghton-le-Spring, Sunderland.

Despite stepping in on short notice and conceding 30kg in weight, Osborne delivered a composed display across four rounds to secure a 40–36 decision on the scorecards, marking a significant step forward in his professional career.

The former Douglas player has built his career in the demanding role of a journeyman – fighters who regularly take bouts against larger or more experienced opponents, often on short notice, to test rising prospects and keep events alive.

While such a path rarely brings headlines or favourable odds, Osborne showed in Sunderland that the experience has forged both his resilience and ring craft.

The opening round demonstrated the scale of the challenge before him.

King, naturally the heavier man, pressed forward aggressively, attempting to use his size and strength to overwhelm the Manx fighter.

Osborne, however, stayed calm under pressure, relying on sharp footwork and a clean jab to manage the range.

As the round wore on and King’s early intensity began to fade, the former Manx ABC man grew into the contest, landing precise counters that left the heavier man frustrated.

In the second round Osborne took control, increasing his tempo and forcing King backwards.

Working smartly in the clinch, he turned King’s size to his own advantage, using angles and body positioning to land telling shots. A stiff right hand left King with a bloodied nose, and from that point his confidence visibly ebbed.

By the third, Osborne’s authority on the match was clear.

Commanding the centre of the ring, he mixed head and body attacks with a variety that showcased his tactical development since earlier outings.

His shot selection and composure suggested a fighter gaining belief in his ability to control a contest on his own terms.

Sensing the bout was slipping away, King mounted a spirited push in the fourth and final round.

Yet Osborne’s movement, awareness, and well-timed counterpunching ensured he remained firmly in charge to the final bell, leaving the judges with little doubt.

All three officials scored the bout 40–36 in Osborne’s favour, handing him a well-deserved unanimous decision victory.

The success comes as Osborne begins a new chapter under the guidance of island-based coach and GB Boxing performance coach Elliot Dillon of Strive Performance.

Dillon praised his fighter’s commitment, both inside and outside the ring.

‘This is a great win for Oz,’ said Dillon.

‘After a tough start to his professional career, a win like this will really help build his confidence and maturity in the ring.

‘Having overcome serious back injuries, launched his own business, and celebrated the birth of his second daughter, Oz has shown real dedication to his training and development.

‘As a coach, I couldn’t be prouder. This wasn’t just a win on paper – it was a performance built on resilience, maturity, and belief.’