Tony Nellins returns to boxing with exciting Belfast brawl

Tony Nellins ensured that it was a happy return to the ring tonight in Belfast at the Shorts Sports and Social Club.

It was almost like a second debut for Nellins, who had not fought for five and a half years, and the East Belfast man scored a points win.

Making his return at welterweight, although with an eventual aim of moving to lightweight, Nellins defeated Scotch journeyman JP McGuinness over four rounds.

Nellins made a furious start, bullying the Scot onto the ropes and unloading countless shots to the body, reddening the mid-section of McGuinness. While his opponent did land the occasional shot off the ropes, it was a dominant first round from Nellins.

The switch-hitting 25 year old started to show more variety in his punches in what was a more considered second round.

Both looking tired by the third, Nellins would bite down on the gumshield and continue to throw a frightening number of shots as he began to aim his attacks to the head.

Nellins would finish strong in the final round, pushing the action to the delight of his followers but McGuinness would see out the round and the fight.

Going to the cards, referee and former Irish light heavyweight champion Jason McKay scored the bout 40:36 in favour of Nellins.

‘The Baddest Man in Belfast’ moves to 3(0)-0 with the win, while the game McGuinness falls to 2(0)-4(2).

Nellins will now hope to get active and move through the ranks as part of Alio Wilton’s plans for a busy 2017.