Professional Boxing Returns to Derby
- Mark Dunn
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
Boxing Returns to Derby: A Masterclass in Local Talent at the New Events Venue - An Event by Trilogy Promotions
By Sports News UK Staff
The roar of the crowd returned to the heart of Derbyshire last month as Trilogy Promotions delivered a high-octane night of championship boxing. Hosted at the city's sleek, newly-unveiled Derby Events Venue, the December showcase proved that the local fight scene is not just alive—it is thriving.
As the winter frost settled outside, the atmosphere inside the arena was white-hot. This wasn't just another sports event; it was a grand opening of sorts for a venue that looks set to become a powerhouse for UK combat sports.
A New Era for Derby Boxing
For years, Derby fans have travelled to Nottingham or Birmingham for major fight nights. However, the partnership between Trilogy Promotions and the new events space has shifted the gravity of Midlands boxing. The venue provided a state-of-the-art backdrop, featuring immersive lighting and tiered seating that ensured every "seat in the house" felt like ringside.
The Fight Card: Results and Standout Performers
The night featured a stacked card of local favorites and rising regional stars, delivering a mix of technical boxing and explosive finishes.
Rising Stars: Local prospects like Ellis Price and Sasha Booker showed immense composure, both securing points wins that suggest they are ready for a step up in competition in 2026.
Highlights from the Ring
• The Power of Graves: The main event saw Alan Graves make a massive statement in the middleweight division. Graves utilized a punishing jab to dismantle David Kerkmann, forcing a technical knockout in the second round and sending the Derby crowd into a frenzy.
• Tactical Excellence: Steven Cairns put on a masterclass of footwork and ring generalship. Facing the resilient Cesar Ignacio Paredes, Cairns controlled the pace over eight rounds to secure a convincing points victory.
• Rising Stars: Local prospects like Ellis Price and Sasha Booker showed immense composure, both securing points wins that suggest they are ready for a step up in competition in 2026.
Steven Cairns v Cesar Ignacio Paredes - Image by Mark Dunn Photography Ltd
If Hollywood scripted the rise of Alan Graves Jr, producers would reject it for being "too unrealistic." Yet, the Derby-born middleweight has turned the boxing world on its head, culminating in a devastating homecoming performance at the Vaillant Live Arena (Derby Events Venue) this past December.
For those who missed the meteoric rise of "El Tolelo," here is why he is the most talked-about name in British boxing today.
The Unlikely Icon
Graves isn't your typical prospect. A highly successful entrepreneur and former CEO of the longevity company DoNotAge.org, he didn't even lace up a pair of professional gloves until the age of 33. In just 18 months, he has transformed from a boardroom executive into a world-class knockout artist.
The Grudge Match: In one of the most competitive bouts of the night, Caine Singh edged out Jake Morgan in a gritty six-round affair that had fans on their feet until the final bell.
Caine Singh v Jake Morgan - Image by Mark Dunn Photography Ltd
Looking Ahead
Trilogy Promotions has built a reputation for high-quality production, and this December tournament was no exception. By choosing the new Derby Events Venue, they have signaled a long-term commitment to the city’s sporting infrastructure. Congratulation to Harry Ashton and Trilogy Promotions on such a robust start.
Harry Ashton - Image by Mark Dunn Photography Ltd
"The energy tonight was unlike anything we've seen in the Midlands for a long time," said one ringside observer. "Derby has a new home for boxing, and if tonight was a preview of what's to come, the 2026 season is going to be historic."
With rumors already swirling about a spring return to the same venue, boxing fans in the UK should keep their eyes fixed on Derby. The city is no longer just a stop on the map; it is a destination.
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