Perfect learning fight for unbeaten Jamie
Edwards forces Noot to cover-up. Picture: Manjit Narotra/BCB Promotions
FOR once Jamie Edwards’ wrecking ball punches failed to demolish the opposition and the exciting light-welter had to travel the full distance on Friday night.
On BCB’s “Stand and Deliver” show at the Eastside Rooms, Birmingham, Edwards settled for a wide four round points decision over tough Garth Noot.
The South African, now based in Newport, Wales, came with ambition, looked to unload and earned a share of one round, probably the second. The official score was 40-37.
That’s five pro bouts in the bag for Coventry’s Edwards, the only minor blip coming in his second outing: a draw with Stu Green when the 27-year-old looked for the blast -out and energy levels dipped.
He learned a lot from that four rounder. He learned not to force a stoppage.
It’s good to see Edwards, a highly decorated amateur with famed club Triumph, building a head of steam under his career after a year out through injury. Friday was his third bout in 2025.
“He was tough to say the least,” Jamie said of Noot. “Every shot he threw, he was trying to knock my head off, he was hard to break down.
“I knew that if I stayed in the pocket too long some vicious shots were coming. I’m happy with the way I performed. I learned from my second fight that I can’t expect to go in there and blow everyone away. Now I’m placing my shots much better rather than just firing away.”
Edwards, who represented England in the amateurs, looks a very good addition to the pro ranks, although there’s a long way to go. To date, he’s faced men with losing records and has not gone beyond four rounds.
“Hopefully, it’ll be a six rounder next,” he said. “Next year we are looking at 10 rounds. If it all goes to plan, a Midlands title next year would be amazing.”
Edwards – by day a JLR technician – admitted it’s taken time to adapt to the professional code. “It’s completely different to the amateurs,” he added. “The gloves are a big difference – 8oz, that was a lot to get used to. But the slower pace suits me and longer distances will suit me more.
“For sure I get nerves – everyone gets nerves because it’s a tough old sport. My amateur career has really helped me deal with those.”
Edwards has firmly established himself as one to watch after a snapped bicep tendon, an injury suffered in sparring, wrote off 2024.
“It’s been frustrating and stressful,” Jamie told me in a previous. “When that happens, it’s disappointing, but part of the learning experience. You watch all the other boxers you know doing well and you’re recovering. It’s very frustrating.”
He added: “I have the power, the power is there – it’s about learning the other things needed and using them correctly.”
Noot, who has lost 12 of 14, provided a near perfect lesson.