CRESSEX boxer Jamal Khan is three fights away from a national belt after being crowned London champion last weekend.

The defending Three Nations champion won all three of his fights to take the London 46kg crown and progress to the regional round in Cornwall on March 23.

If he triumphs there the Cressex School pupil will have two more bouts to win to retain his national belt.

Coach Adrian Moco said: “He is a special talent and can go all the way – even winning a European title.”

Meanwhile, High Wycombe Boxing Club star Ben Smith captained England in an international match against Ireland at the weekend.

However, he couldn’t inspire his country to victory as they were beaten 4-3. Smith lost his own bout too against Irish and European youth champion James Cleary, despite starting brightly.

But he couldn’t maintain his rhythm and eventually lost a close points decision.

Wycombe coach John MacInnes said: “I was proud to see one of our boxers lead his country and despite the loss he has done himself very proud in what has been a busy two months.”