An elated Rakeem Noble says he feels “fantastic” after sealing the Southern Area super lightweight title with a dominant victory at York Hall on Saturday night.
The 26-year-old recorded a knockout win over Sohail Ahmad, who was unbeaten in seven fights, to claim the vacant belt.
Noble had set his sights on the title for several months and insists he is immensely proud to be crowned the Southern Area super lightweight champion.
He said: “I’m still in shock but it feels fantastic. This is something I’ve been targeting for a few months so to achieve it is something I’m very proud about.
“I said this fight could further my career and put me on the map and I think it will.”
In a dramatic and exciting fight at the Bethnal Green venue, Noble dropped his West Brompton opponent in the first and second round.
Despite entering the ring as the underdog, Noble’s dominance culminated in a knockout blow in the fourth round.
“Before the fight I knew I was the underdog, most people were saying I was going to struggle so it’s a boost to beat him in such a dominant fashion,” the Rosehill fighter said.
“I think it was the fight of the night in terms of excitement. I dropped him five times and I went down once.
“I came out all guns blazing and took him to the floor twice in the opening round. It was a great start but I think I got a little cocky and started underestimating him.”
Although Noble ultimately dominated the fight, he admitted to being in trouble after Ahmad caught him with a strong right hand.
He added: “I got up ok but was struggling. I stayed out of trouble and weathered the storm – that was a wake-up call.
“I have never been knocked down before so it was a shock. It was a confidence boost knowing I have a good chin but it’s not something I want tested again.
“Perhaps I was reckless but I’ll certainly learn from that and take that into my next fight.”
Noble, who grew up in Croydon, has now won 10 of his 11 professional fights and is hoping to defend his title in a few months’ time.
He said: “I’m going to meet up with my manager soon to discuss it. I’m hoping to defend the title, perhaps in May or June.
“Until then it’s about getting back in the gym and working hard.”
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