Weipa’s Jack Barton (right) poses for a photo with Malakai Katene after the pair put on one of the fights of the tournament at the Australian Amateur Boxing League National Titles in Gosford on 30 November. Photo: Supplied.
He may be bruised and battered, but Weipa boxer Jack Barton is as confident as ever about a future in the ring after impressing on the sport’s amateur national stage last week.
Barton donned the gloves for Queensland at the 2024 Australian Amateur Boxing League National Titles in Gosford from 28-30 November and returned to western Cape York with a strong first-up win, a split decision loss against a fighter two years his senior, and a reputation as one to watch in the ring in the coming years.
The 17-year-old Weipa product delivered one of the fights of the event when he clashed with Malakai Katene in the 75-78 kilogram intermediate division, with the judges handing the win – and his third Australian title – to the Victorian boxer after they thrilled the crowd over four two-minute rounds.
Barton rated the fight against Katene as the best of his career, adding he had been thrilled to represent Queensland, Weipa and his club, Cape York Boxing Weipa, in the ring in front of a national audience.
“I’ve come out of the tournament with two black eyes and a few bruises, and besides the soreness, it’s been the most challenging and enjoyable bout I’ve had so far in my career,” he told Cape York Weekly.
“I’m grateful for having the opportunity to represent my town and state in the ring.
“Although the loss is disappointing, it gives me motivation to keep progressing through the sport and go for gold at the next Australian titles.”
Cape York Boxing Weipa founder and coach Scott Wallace praised his boxer and said he believed the bout was closer than the scorecard suggested.
“I watched the replay last night and I think he was the dominant boxer,” he said.
“I think he controlled the fight, and I think he was chasing the Australian champion around – his jab and his right cross were just absolutely dominating.
“The size of that kid’s heart is something else; he was wearing the biggest shots and not even blinking, and just giving it back.
“He wasn’t going to give old mate an inch.”
Wallace added be believed Barton’s performance in Gosford would help other club members recognise what could be achieved in the sport, despite the tyranny of distance.
“It’s just great for the club; we’re dreaming big and inspiring a lot of other young boxers,” he said.
“I couldn’t be prouder of him.”
Despite losing his second fight in a split decision and copping two black eyes for his trouble, you could not wipe the smile of 17-year-old Weipa product Jack Barton’s face after he impressed on the national stage in New South Wales on Saturday. Photo: Supplied.
