Waltham Forest Boxing Club’s Joe Payne blazed his way to the National Junior ABA U80k title at the weekend with a real knockout performance.

Faced against Twickenham and Brunswick’s Joe Stokes at the TA Centre in Grove Park on Saturday, the Forest puncher wasted little time in getting down to work in a blistering opening session.

The first bell saw both fighters tear into each other landing some big blows, but Payne, 16, stood up to the challenge before unleashing a four punch combination that end with a hammer right hook.

Despite being knocked down Stokes showed huge bravery to start taking an eight standing count from the ref, but the official felt it was too dangerous for him to continue and waved off proceedings.

Reflecting on events delighted club secretary, Ian Cuddy said: “What a performance that was.

“Joe is one tough cookie and both boys really went for it from the off.

“I have to thank all the coaches for their efforts in the gym and it is great to have another national champion on our books, because it has been a while!”