BORDON bare-knuckle boxer Darren ‘The Dazzler’ Hendry has become a European champion.

Darren beat Danish fighter Nicolai Hempel at the Norbreck Castle Hotel in Blackpool to claim the Bare Fist Boxing Association cruiserweight European title.

Darren had to deal with a change of opponent at short notice, as he had been due to face German fighter Niko ‘Kahl Stahl’ Lohmann for the title.

However, the change did not effect Darren, who made light work of his new opponent.

“I only got told in the week of the fight about the change in opponent,” said Darren.

“I’m confident in my own ability and I was ready. I knocked Nicolai down in the first round. He didn’t get up and I won by knockout.

“I would like to thank all the people from the local area who travelled to support me.

“I broke my hand in the fight – but it was all for a good cause.”

Darren, who initially had success as an amateur gloved boxer, has made swift progress up the bare-knuckle boxing ranks.

His dedication to training has already borne fruit in the ring.

“It was my fourth bare knuckle fight and I’ve had four wins by knockout,” said Darren.

“I get up at 5.45am to go for a run, and I also do strength and conditioning work. I enjoy the training – you have to enjoy it.”

Being European champion may only just be sinking in, but Darren already has his eyes on a world title fight.

“The next step for me is a world title shot,” he said. “I want to test myself and give it a go.

“I’ve got to wait a bit of time for my hand to heal, but hopefully by the end of the year or early next year I can have a world title fight.

“My sights are set on being a world champion.”

Darren’s European title fight raised funds for Bordon girl Olivia Howlett, who is battling leukemia, with a proportion of ticket sales donated to a fundraiser.

Anyone who would like to donate to Olivia’s fundraiser should visit gofund.me/7d4d7d4f