A BOXER who had a cardiac arrest last year was victorious at a packed out charity dinner event at the weekend.

Kane McKenzie feared his fighting days could be over after he collapsed at work.

The 22-year-old had to have an emergency operation at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital but has fought back well and saw off the challenge of Salisbury City's Ben Walters at the South Wye Police Boxing Academy event at Hereford Sixth Form College.

"There was a chance I couldn't box again, but I won my last fight and got on the show," said McKenzie, who won by unanimous decision.

"The buzz in there was phenomenal and the crowd were really behind me.

"It is the first time we've had four boxers from South Wye on at elite level and I think the atmosphere proved you can have a boxing match at any level as long as you have the support and people behind you."

There was also success for fellow South Wye boxers Zac Morris and Cliff Henry.

Morris beat Rusty Jay Jayhopen of Worcester University, while Henry overcame Llanedeyrn & Pentwyn's Jamie David.

"A lot of my family and friends came to see me and it was great to compete in front a crowd as big as this," said Morris.

"Boxing is a lonely sport, but when you've got good friends and boxers around you, it helps.

"I have been with South Wye for a year and half.

"I went there for a bit of fitness and then fell in love with the sport."

Henry added: "My opponent fought well but I think my work rate was higher and that what gave me the win.

"It is my first show so it's a good debut."

The other South Wye boxer who fought on the night was Danny Williams, but he was on the wrong end of a split decision against Dan Jones.

However, Williams' display did result in his fight being deemed bout of the night.

In total, nine fights took place with the UK Armed Forces retaining the Hereford Times Cup following wins for Karris Artingstall and Alex Bishop.

England's solitary win came from Elliot Whale, with other matches featuring boxers from The Army taking on opponents from The Navy.

Proceeds on the night went towards Hereford Sixth Form College's Hardship Fund.

"Each year seems to get bigger and the support we get from the Forces is very good," said South Wye Police Boxing Academy secretary Vince McNally.

"The atmosphere for the local boxers was just electric.

"We are in talks with Box Nation and Forces TV put the show on Freeview.

"About four and a half million will watch it on TV and everyone seems to be enjoying it.

"We are working with loads of organisations and the night was about the college and the Hardship Fund."