Coleman takes title after 10 epic rounds
Coleman and Cowling after thrilling battle. Picture: Facebook
HE found boxing success on the other side of the planet, but last night Troi Coleman bagged his first domestic title.
In the Lincolnshire town of Grantham, the Burntwood boxer – now back home and part of the BCB stable – took the vacant Midlands middleweight belt.
And Troi had to dig down to the soles of his boots to overcome Tom Cowling by the narrowest of margins.
After a draining, epic 10 rounder, the 29-year-old was declared winner by a single point, 95-94. It was home favourite Cowling’s first defeat in 13.
He played his part in what will be a fight of the year contender.
As predicted by Coleman, his experience in title fights proved decisive. With the Meres Leisure Centre bout in the balance, he found the extra gear needed during the last two sessions.
Cowling fought aggressively, but Troi’s jab, which brought blood from his opponent’s nose, proved the decisive weapon.
Coleman showed no hangover from his previous performance – a crushing stoppage loss to Aussie banger Issac Hardman.
“It was the right decision,” BCB’s Paul Mann said of last night’s scrap. “Cowling was aggressive, but fought in spurts and those spurts came in the last 20 seconds of the rounds. There wasn’t enough work to go with his aggression. For me, he didn’t do enough to snatch it.
“Being the away fighter, it was a massive win for Troi.”
It was a case of unfinished business being completed for the Staffordshire scrapper. He fought for the same Midlands title in 2020 and, in front of TV cameras, was stopped by River Wilson-Bent.
After that first loss, Troi moved to Thailand and became an Asian champ. He now rules a portion of his own country.
On social media, Coleman posted: “I haven't watched it back, but from what I remember, what a fight!
“Home-coming, first fight back in the UK in four years, coming off a TKO loss and straight into another title fight against an undefeated, good fighter in Tom - and again in my opponent’s back yard.
“I really am buzzing. I’m the world’s worst when it comes to criticising my performances, but I’m proud of myself with this one.
“Takes two to make a great fight and fair play to Tom and his team at Carl Greaves Promotions. Massive thank you to my sponsors, Shane Watson, OS Flooring Tiling and Interiors, JMA Decot. All three have been with me fighting all over the world and are still here backing me as friends and brothers.
“A big thanks to my team at Platinum, Ste Cadman, Lee Goodman. Also, John Murray, Jack Finlan and BCB Promotions’ Paul Mann. To my supporters and friends, I love you all! Also, my Uzbek brothers and coach @raamziik
“Then last, but definitely not least, my family. We’ve been through some difficult times over the last nine plus months. I just wanted a night really for us. We needed it and that was all I thought about during the last two rounds when I knew it was anyone’s fight for the taking. I couldn't lose!”
He added: “I’ve tasted my defeats and took them all on the chin but last night was my night.”
Coleman has a dream – to win the British title. It edged closer to a reality last night.
And Paul Mann stressed: “He was coming off a stoppage loss, he has been in Thailand for two years. When you have that grit and determination, there’s always a chance of doing something. If you have that belief and desire, you can do it.”