Shannon Courtenay wins on pro debut after beating Cristina Busuioc on points
Bantamweight hails the fans after triumphing at the Copper Box venue where her boxing journey began six years ago
SHANNON COURTENAY cruised to a win on her professional debut in the arena her boxing journey began.
Six years ago she was introduced to the sport, having attended Billy Joe Saunders' British title win against John Ryder, despite mistaking the future world champion for Dereck Chisora.
But there were no mistakes in Courtenay’s debut win in the paid ranks, outpointing Cristina Busuioc convincingly over four rounds.
After victory, the newly turned 1-0 bantamweight said: "I wanted to get her out of there, but I enjoyed myself and that's the main thing.
"The support was crazy, I think the whole of Watford has got behind me."
Kitted out in white and gold with matching gloves and boots, Courtenay began the opening round like an old pro walking Busuioc landing a tidy right hand.
Busuioc was sent pegging backwards after a right hand landed, and Courtenay capitalised, working the head and body effectively, while ducking under the counters thrown back.
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Into the second and the hometown debutant remained grounded and focused, never looking like coming out of her rhythm despite the roar of the crowd.
Courtenay landed a tidy lead uppercut with the left hand following as she walked her opponent down with a mean glare.
In the third Busuioc was hurt after a string of left-hooks started an attack sending her trotting back as again Courtenay landed the uppercut and hook combination.
The former Finchley amateur, still friends with famous alumnus Anthony Joshua, finished the final round with her hands down, flicking out the jab and enjoying the final two minutes of her pro debut.
Despite an onslaught at the end, the Adam Booth manager bantamweight could not force the finish - but boxed with real composure throughout.
