A boxer says it was an "amazing feeling" to win in his hometown in his first ever professional bout.
Brandon Lewis, 27, beat his Croatian counterpart after delivering a stellar performance at Woodside Leisure Centre in Garston on February 26.
Abbots Langley's Lewis, who trains at the PUG gym in Finchley, north London, secured a 40-36 points victory against the more experienced Stanko Jermelic, 30, including a straight right hand that sent his opponent into the ropes in the third round.
Lewis said he was feeling "good and sharp" and had confidence in his ability to put on a show for the crowd who gathered for the Young Lions 2.0 boxing undercard of nine fights arranged by Tony Pill.
Looking back on his victory, Lewis said: "It was an amazing feeling having my professional debut in my hometown surrounded by my family, friends and loved ones. It's one that I'll cherish my entire life."
Lewis, who is coached by a middleweight boxing champion in Jason Matthews and kickboxing champion in Kingsley Morgan, celebrated his victory with his team after the fight.
Boxing trainer Don Charles, who lists heavyweight title-winning boxer Dereck Chisora among his clients, said of Lewis: "For a debut performance, he demonstrated great maturity. It’s like he’s been doing it for years – Brandon is a natural star and one to watch out for in the future."
Lewis holds the BIKMA UK Middleweight K1 championship. and he trains at Shaolin Kickboxing’s Hertfordshire classes in St Albans and Kings Langley. Outside of sport, he models for several fashion brands.
The rookie boxer is looking forward to taking part in more professional matches.
Lewis added: "I'd love to box in Watford again - a dream of mine for the future would be to box at Vicarage Road stadium, I feel that would be an unreal setting."
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