A champion and a role model for Seaham. Meet Adam Hepple.
The 30-year-old is feeling “amazing” after bludgeoning defending champ Matt McCallum to a second-round stoppage defeat in their Northern Area super-middleweight title clash in Houghton.
Hepple, boxing for only the fourth time as a professional, upset the odds to deliver a first title for elated trainer Jordan Williams and send his army of fans from along the road into ecstasy.
His ambition is strong – as is his pride for Seaham, illustrated by the fact he entered Rainton Arena to SR7, a song written and sung by friend Matty Smith, from Social Room.
“It feels amazing,” he said. “For me, this is just the start, I want to go onto bigger things than the Northern Area title.
“I’d love to push on from here, maybe get an English title eliminator.
“It was an unbelievable night and Seaham was a big part of it.
“I was blown away to have 200 people from the town supporting me.
“I want to be a good role model, not just for my daughters Holly and Ruby, but for all the kids and people in Seaham.
“I hope I’ve proved that if you work hard and dedicate yourself that you can do anything.”
Hard work and dedication are two wonderful traits, so too are skill and power.
And Hepple displayed both against his rival, from Morpeth.
McCallum had the better of the first round, using his left on the inside most effectively.
But, sent out with specific instructions from Williams, he put his fists to immediate work.
A right to McCallum’s body then head wobbled the champ with Hepple almost punching him through the ropes in his follow up assault.
Referee Ron Kearney gave Matt a standing eight count and it seemed he might be able to continue, but when the Sunderland official asked him to take a step to his side, he looked very unsteady.
Mr Kearney, correctly, waved it off after only 39 seconds sparking joyous scenes including the great picture at the top of this page.
“I’ve always believed in myself and believed in my power,” said Adam. “When I fought on the unlicensed scene, everyone I beat I stopped.”
It is one thing doing that in unlicensed boxing, it’s another thing doing it to a gifted champion.
Hepple has made a flying start to his career, heaping praise on coach Williams, from Twins gym in Trimdon, for making him the boxer he is.
“I’d followed him on Instagram and thought ‘he’s quality’,” said Adam.
“I’d fought on unlicensed shows and did kick-boxing but wanted to go pro in boxing so I contacted him. I went to Twins and sparred with Daryll Hall and have just gone from there.
“Jordan’s only a young lad, but he’s hungry for it and he knows so much.
“We’re two young lads who bounce off each other, he’s not just my coach, he’s a great mate.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Tom Collins
