JESS Barry is heading home to defend her English featherweight championship after winning in France.
The 30-year-old from Coventry won a six-round majority decision over Laela El Ksiri in Auch, Southern France. Her next fight will be closer to home.
Barry is set to defend her St George’s belt on the latest Excelsior Sporting Club show in Cannock on Thursday, May 29.
Excelsior chief Scott Murray has got behind Barry – promoting four of her last six fights – and was in France with her.
Murray said: “Her opponent was a good pro, possibly a bit better than we thought she would be, but Jess still won every round for me.
“She boxed really well and we couldn’t believe one of the judges had it a draw.
“Everyone loved her – apart from that judge!
“She came out to an Irish tune that got the crowd interested and then boxed really well.”
Murray believes he can help deliver Barry a world title fight next year.
Provided Barry wins later this month, Murray plans to match her for a WBC belt to get her a world ranking.
He said: “Jess needs a few more fights at championship level, and if she keeps winning, I can definitely see her fighting for a world title next year.”
There’s another English featherweight title fight on the May 29 show with Nyall Berry defending his belt.
