TRAVIS Walden stormed to victory against overconfident opponent Josh Baldwin at Portsmouth University.

The home fighter predicted a first-round win prior to the bout but his words came back to haunt him as the Dorchester & District boxer gained a majority decision.

Baldwin did make an impressive start with some heavy shots in the opening round.

But after some wise words in the corner, Walden upped his game and began to out-punch his rival.

By the third round, the county town member was scoring freely with several quickfire combinations, before a well timed uppercut left Baldwin desperately tired.

And it was no surprise when Walden’s hand was raised at the end of the contest.

The 17-year-old said: “I never underestimate or take opponents lightly. I weigh them up before I dive in.”

Coaches Ben Geyser and Jon Jo Look added: “We are pleased that Travis was able to slog his way back from the brink of defeat.

“That was the qualifying bout needed to enable Travis to enter the Novice ABA Championships. “It will be a hard ride as Travis has had no junior experience, but everyone at the club wishes him well.”