Ali, 12, from Keighley, defeated Irish National Schoolboy champion, Gary Keogh, from the Kilkenny Marble City Amateur Boxing Club. The bout took place in Dungarvan, County Wexford.

Keith Tate, Ali’s coach at Cleckheaton, who flew over to watch his fighter, said his young charge boxed exceptionally well and the official points tally did not accurately reflect the margin of victory.

“The judges had it down as a 4-2 win but it should have been nearer 10-2 and the Irish national coach sat with me agreed,” said Tate.

Now the boxer and his coach are keeping their fingers crossed that Ali might be in contention for a place in the England team to go to the European Schoolboy Championships in Moscow in October.

Of the boys in his age group Ali is showing the most promise and progress in front of the England coaches.

He’s also drawn admiring comments from people in the know in boxing. Amir Khan’s father Shahjaad saw the fight in Dungarvan and passed on his congratulations to Keith Tate, noting especially his relentless punching and stamina.

“He never stops, even in the gym he’s always looking to make the next punch and his stamina is phenomenal for someone of his age,” said Tate

Ali’s, progress has also been noted by local television, national radio and newspapers recently. However, moving onto a national and international stage comes at a price and club officials are seeking sponsorship to help him develop his career. It is an opportunity to assist a promising athlete at the start of his career.

If you are able to help contact Keith Tate on 07979 030406