Nabeel ready to take the challenge (From Elmbridge Guardian)

Nabeel ready to take the challenge

9:50am Wednesday 21st February 2007 in Local Sports Round-up By Stuart Amos

Big T ABC's Nabeel Butt has accepted the chance of a rematch with Foley's Steve Ellis but not before a shot at the National Senior Novice Championships in April.

South Wimbledon's Butt, 23, suffered a controversial points defeat to the Claygate south-paw in his club's debut show at Wallington Halls last month.

The Haydons Road-based club had threatened to lodge an official complaint over the decision to the Amateur Boxing Association of England.

Foley representatives last week offered a repeat of the bout and Big T head coach Tahir Hassan believes it would be in his club's best interests for the issue to be settled in the ring.

"We would definitely like a rematch but we also want Nabeel to win the championships, so it will have to be at a convenient time for both of the lads," he said this week.

"A lot has been said about the judging and we won't be making a complaint.

"These things happen in boxing and as a new club we don't want to rock the boat.

"What I have been telling our kids is to not leave the decision to the judges in the future and use the skills we have taught them to win the fights hands down."