WILDCARD boxer Olivia Hussey had to shed three kilos and drop down a weight at the Open Class English Junior Finals in order to find an opponent who would take her on.

Having failed to get one in her own chosen weight category, England boxing allowed the Fingerpost fighter to enter the semi-final stage at Ponds Forge Sheffield providing she made the 63kg limit.

She had little over a week to do that, but the hard work paid off and the 15-year-old entered the ring with a steely determination and after three rounds of top class boxing Hussey was the clear winner, getting a unanimous decision over her opponent to reach the final.

The following day Wildcard got its first female champion after Hussey had see off a strong, tough and more experienced opponent in Tyne and Wear's Sadie Thomas.

Using all in her arsenal, the De la Salle pupil switched with ease between back-foot skill to aggressive sustained power punching to emerge from the battle again a clear winner with the unanimous decision - and with it came the English title and championship belt.

Hussey's performances earned her a call-up for assessment by England's national coaches.

Although a relative newcomer to the sport, fellow Wildcard boxer Hannah Palfrey also made it through to the finals.

The 15-year-old from Windle was prepared to give her shot at the title everything she had.

Although round one saw Palfrey on the back foot against Georgia O'Connor - a very strong experienced opponent , she would not crumble.

It only strengthened the resolve of this fighter a better second round saw Palfrey back in the mix.

With and an exhausting fight to the finish it just wasn't enough to get the decision,but the club have high hopes that Palfrey will be champion.

There's a chance to see all Wildcard squad in action on the May 2 when the club host an open show at Moss Bank Labour Club.

Tickets cost £10/£5 and they are are available from Dom Hodnett on 0782591 2132 or from popping in at the Wildcard Boxing Club on Derbyshire Hill Road.