Fans of Shaw boxer brothers Thomas and Jack Rafferty were delighted to have made the journey to the boxing show at Whites Hotel Bolton and ecstatic at the brothers’ stunning performances both winning their matches decisively, writes James Bovington.

“This was the first time both lads featured on the same event since turning becoming pro boxers and I was as proud as punch to see both establish themselves as genuine contenders for title fights in their respective divisions,” said father and Oldham businessman Dave Rafferty.

Rafferty’s younger son super middleweight boxer Tom, 25, beat opponent Adam Cieslak with a convincing stoppage in the first round of the schedule six.

“In just two years in the professional ranks,” said Tom, “I’m now undefeated in eight bouts with three opponents stopped. I punch very powerfully and have made it clear just what I’m capable of. Potential opponents higher up the rankings should take note and be fully aware of exactly what they’ll face when boxing me.”

Following his win at Bolton and now undefeated in 20 fights older brother super lightweight boxer Jack faced a wily and tenacious and brave opponent in Nicaraguan Greyvin Mendoza.

“He kept going. I threw everything at him but the kitchen sink,” he said. “Together we put on an explosive performance which hopefully people found both entertaining and exhilarating but I’m pleased that by the final sixth round I’d worn him down, especially as this was my first fight for a year.”

The brothers train at ‘The Finest Boxing Gym’ in Ancoats coached by Steve Maylett and Joe Eko. Thomas is managed by Steve Barrett and Jack by London 2012 GB Boxing chief coach Tom Stalker who arranged the Bolton show through his company General Sports Worldwide.

Two other Ancoats boxers were also successful at Bolton with Zak Miller now undefeated in twelve bouts and Liam Taylor taking the regional welterweight belt.

Reacting positively to his win the younger Rafferty enthused “I’m dedicating my life to becoming a champion. I’ve an experienced team on the lookout for harder opponents and longer more challenging matches with regional title fights now a distinct possibility.”

Sentiments shared by Jack who said: “The Bolton fight was the test I needed and I’m now planning for a ten round title fight this summer which should give a world ranking.”

Father Dave remains his sons’ top fan commending them for being “two seriously tough young fighters but also clean-living men who are strong role models and excellent ambassadors for the sport they love. No father could ask for more.”