Moreton Bay boxing duo punch tickets to Commonwealth Games contention

Two young Moreton Bay boxers may be climbing through the ropes at this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Jye Dixon, 21, and Darcy O’Malley, 18, from All Star Boxing Academy in Lawnton, won their divisions at the recent Australian Selection Trials. Dixon – born at Caboolture and now based in Brendale - dominated the 55kg competition, winning every fight 5-0 and is likely to be in Glasgow.

O’Malley, a recent graduate from St Paul’s School Bald Hills, had five fights in seven days,
but won a tough 60kg class and is waiting to see if he makes the team.

Boxing Australia will announce its Commonwealth Games team on April 8.

On their return from the AIS in Canberra, Dixon and O’Malley were greeted at Brisbane Airport by a huge group of All Star boxers, fans and family.

“To win at this level against the best men in the country is no small feat it’s a testament to the dedication, sacrifice, and relentless work these men put in every single day,” All Star Boxing posted on its Facebook page.

“A huge acknowledgment to coach Paul Utia for his tireless commitment to his athletes and the standards he drives inside the gym. The whole All Star Boxing family is incredibly proud.”

Dixon said last year’s World Championships were the “biggest event in my career so far, but this would be close behind.

“There was a sense of relief when I won. But at the same time, I thought wow, I actually did it!”

He spent time in Glasgow training for the world titles in Liverpool and was close to the Commonwealth Games venues.

O’Malley has been at All Star Boxing since the age of 12 and is the Queensland Under 19 60kg Champion (his fifth state title) and Australian Schools Youth Champion.

The selection trials final was his first without a headguard.

Australia’s selected team is likely to have a busy build-up to the Commonwealth Games, from July 23-August 2, with trips to Brazil and China mentioned.

Feature image of Jye Dixon courtesy of Boxing Australia.