Adrian Roach Dedicates Win To His Grandfather
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Bermudian amateur boxer Adrian Roach has dedicated his victory over American Luis Portillo at The Shed in Dockyard on Saturday [October 28] to his grandfather who died last month.
Eugene “Vic” Ball was a former Devonshire Colts coach and a retired firefighter. He died aged 74.
Roach, who defeated Portillo by a unanimous decision, told Bernews: “My poppa was close to me and well-known on the island in sports and within the community.”
The 21-year-old admits he felt disrespected by Portillo’s pre-fight comments contest, questioning his ability, but proved a point during a dominant display throughout the three rounds.
“Before the fight, my opponent said he wasn’t impressed by my skills and didn’t think I had anything to offer that he hadn’t seen before,” said Roach, who improved his record to 22 wins from 28 bouts.
“I think I proved him wrong. It was a shutout, and I had fun in there. I didn’t even feel tired after the fight.”
The Crandall University student, who has three fights scheduled in the United States next month, said he was thrilled to have delivered a convincing display in front of his home crowd.
“It always feels great to fight in front of my home supporters,” he added.
“It feels good knowing I have a support system and hearing everyone cheering for me. It’s really appreciated.
“By the end of the year, I should have had 11 fights. I need to stay active and ready.”
Get ‘em Tiger