BRADFORD College student Haider Rafiq has produced a stunning stoppage against a Northern Area champion in Northwich.

Heavyweight Rafiq, who is 17, stopped his opponent Sam Broughton in the second round.

The bout was only meant to be a warm up for the previously undefeated Broughton, but Rafiq displayed great control from the very first round and showed off his skills.

The Bradford student was understandably in an ecstatic mood after the fight, saying: "I love this sport, it's given me so much discipline in my life and has made me a better man.

"I would like thank my coach (Mo) Ali, who's made all the changes in my life and given me guidance.

"He has been a rock for me, and he's more than a coach, he's like family.

"He's been a volunteer in boxing for last 20 years and has massively impacted many people's lives as a coach.

"I'd like to thank all those who have supported me during my training camp before the fight too."

Coach Ali enthused afterwards: "What an absoultely amazing performance from Heddi (Haider).

"I'm so proud of him and if there's anyone who deserves the win, its him, as he's always fit, and ready to go out and compete.

"This match was only a warm-up bout for Haider's opponent, who was an undefeated fighter.

"But Heddi went into the back yard of the champion's home show and outboxed him.

"Moving forward, I would like to see Haider box for the Yorkshire youth title at heavyweight, it's a must.

"Myself and his head coach at Platinum Boxing will sit down to try to make that happen very soon."

Ali added: "I would also like to say thank you to the team at Platinum Boxing Gym, because it belongs to the community and is an amazing place with a good atmosphere.

"If we, as a club, can help anyone from suffering from depression, anxiety or mental health issues, we feel boxing is the way forward."