Bowen loses out in a Midlands title thriller

Cowling has his hand raised after thriller. Picture: BCB Promotions

AARON Bowen must learn to curb his enthusiasm for a dog-fight after tasting defeat for the first time in his first professional title test.

On Saturday’s huge Matchroom show at Birmingham’s BP Pulse Live arena, the Coventry middle engaged in a thrilling 10 round war for the vacant Midlands title: a true classic with dramatic ebbs and flows of fortune. This draining battle may well be named Midlands fight of the year in the forthcoming Board of Control awards.

And, in an upset, it was the more experienced Newark, Nottinghamshire, boxer who had his hand raised.

The decision was split – 96-93 Bowen, 95-94 (twice) for Cowling, but I had no doubt the right man won, although it was mighty close.

And I’ll admit to getting this one badly wrong, tipping 26-year-old Bowen to score a stoppage.

Quite simply, Cowling, who has lost only one of 16, was a revelation. He boxed with skill and showed courage to survive crisis moments.

I thought Bowen, after an indifferent start, had clinched dramatic victory in the fifth when 29-year-old Cowling was dropped heavily.

Yet Tom defiantly fought back and even landed three jabs flush as Bowen moved in for the finish.

That, basically, highlighted the flaw in Aaron’s fighting make-up. He’s wildly exciting, heavy-handed, yet too easy to hit. Cowling showed strength and heart alone are not enough at title level, connecting with too many eye-catching shots.

Bowen’s “take one to land one” philosophy was his undoing.

Trainer Shiney Singh needs to tighten the former Commonwealth Games bronze medallist’s defence.

Bowen, who bled heavily from the nose, also learned you can’t always bulldoze your way to victory. Over 10 and 12 rounds, patience is needed.

In the epic’s aftermath, BCB Promotions, which back Bowen, posted: “Wasn't the result we wanted, but Aaron Bowen put on a fight of the year contender.

“Moved up to chief support, Aaron may not have left the arena with the Midlands Area title, but his army of supporters and exciting style will ensure he will be back out soon and ready to go again.”

Bowen, in his eighth contest, certainly enjoyed big support. A former top amateur, he’s been groomed for stardom during an apprenticeship served on major shows. Eddie Hearn, I’m sure, will want to secure a rematch.

Aaron will come again – hopefully wiser for the setback.

Cowling, managed by Carl Greaves, has arrived on the big stage after a career carved in small halls. He deserves even greater success.

Watching him perform, I was struck by one thought. How good does Troy Coleman’s victory over Coleman – secured last year in Tom’s hometown for the Midlands title – now look?