Manx ABC boxer TJ Phair caused an upset and produced an almost punch-perfect performance to clinch the North West regional junior title on Sunday afternoon.

For the second year in succession, Phair reached the regional junior final, victory putting the island teen into the last-16 of the England ABA National Championships.

Moving up in weight, TJ took on the much-fancied and 2019 NABC National Champion Jaydon Johnson, who has only four losses on his record from 23 bouts.

The packed crowed at the Tameside Boxing Academy in Manchester were treated to a tremendous three rounds of boxing in this 48kg final.

At the sound of the bell, TJ set the tone with a blistering, quick and aggressive start, taking control and pushing his man straight on to the back foot as he landed solid jabs and quick combinations.

The Collyhurst & Moston Boxing Club fighter tried to answer back with his counter punches but the Manxman’s quick footwork and defence kept him out of trouble.

A strong finish to the round from TJ put the Manx boxer on top and in control.

The Manchester lad started the second with a bit more purpose and looked to put early pressure on TJ, but the Pulrose man’s fast feet and quick counter-punches were frustrating Johnson who was warned a few times for holding and pushing.

A strong finish to round two had the Manx boxer another round to the good.

Sensing they were behind, and after some strong words from his corner, former national champion Johnson flew out of the corner and onto the attack.

TJ, however, would not be denied the chance to progress to this weekend’s Nationals and responded with his own attacks.

This made for a cracking last round and at the end of the bout Phair not only has a big scalp on his record, but was also crowned North West Regional Champion.

There will be little rest for 15-year-old TJ as the National pre-quarter-finals will take place in Manchester on Sunday, where Phair will face the Yorkshire champion.

This begins a busy month for the Manx ABC as the club prepares to move from its current Empress Road premises to a much bigger facility in Hills Meadow.

The senior Elite ABA championships are on the horizon along with a home show at the Villa Marina on Saturday, April 18.

Tickets for this are on sale at the Villa Gaiety box office now.

All information regarding the club’s up and coming events can be viewed on the clubs at www.manxabc.com