LIAM Joseph fought through to a national final and then heard his trainer Jack Wilson say he is already a champion.

Joseph, of the Marlow Police and Community Boxing Club, saw off Western Counties champion Mason Shaw on Saturday night to book his place in the final of the National Gloves competition in Yorkshire next month.

Wilson said: "He's one of those boys that comes into the gym and is already a natural champion.

"He's got all the natural ability and is prepared to put in the hard work too.

"He's quite a heavy-hitter for his age and the potential is there. It's a team effort though and we're all really proud of him."

Joseph, just 13, met Shaw at the Aldershot Leisure Centre in a three-round bout, and after sharing the first round he landed the blows that counted in the second.

He won the round 2-0 to take a 3-1 overall lead before a scoreless final round secured his win.

Wilson said: "Before he went out for the final round I told him it's all on this round. Win this round and you win the bout.

"The judges scored it even, but it was quite comfortable for him and it will take a good boy to beat him."

Joseph will fight North West champion Hugh Fury for the national crown.