Catford’s Ellie Scotney wins first belt in professional boxing ranks
Ellie Scotney claimed her first title as a professional after a narrow points victory over Jorgelina Guanini on Saturday night.
The Catford super-bantamweight was cut over the left eye in the third round and also deducted a point by referee Steve Gray for holding in the 10th round. Two judges scored the contest 96-94 with the other marking it an even closer 95-94.
Scotney won the vacant WBA Inter-continental title.
“There were stages where I let it get a bit closer than I should – with the point off,” said Scotney. “It wasn’t my best performance but I got the job done, which is the main thing.
“There were many more gears I didn’t go through. I know there are bigger things to come, for sure.
“I kept saying in my interviews that she had a point to prove. You could see it in the way she was carrying herself around the hotel – that wasn’t the same fighter that went in with Rachel Ball on five days notice [losing a unanimous points decision for the vacant WBC title]. She had the same amount of time to prepare as me.
“It’s a step forward but I want to be a world champion. I’ve got a lot to work on. I’m heading in the right direction. All my fights have taught me something new.”
PICTURES: MARK ROBINSON/MATCHROOM BOXING