For the first time since 2019, the Cayman Islands has an active professional Caymanian fighter in Christopher Hurlston, who debuted on Saturday, 15 March.
Hurlston, known as the ‘345 Viking’ and arguably one of Cayman’s best amateur boxers, stepped in the ring and earned a unanimous decision against UK veteran Ryan Labourn in a four-round bout at the X-Plosive Event in Leeds.
Hurlston, who last year signed professionally with his coach, legendary British fighter Henry Wharton, said the months of training leading up to his win were worthwhile.
“A huge thank you to my coaches at Henry’s Gym, couldn’t be done without them,” Hurlston told the Compass. “Making my pro debut was an incredible experience. I went in, put in the rounds, boxed well, and stayed focused on applying the game plan we trained for throughout camp.”
The 6-foot 7-inch heavyweight and former Yorkshire Amateur Novice title holder is the only active Caymanian professional boxer, though he isn’t the only one representing Cayman.
Hurlston’s long-time training mate Jaden Eccleston isn’t Caymanian, but he represents the country as well as Jamaica. They both are early in their pro careers – Eccleston is 2-0 and Hurlston, now 1-0.
Prior to Hurlston and Eccleston, the last active professionals for the island were Peter ‘Lightning’ Lewison, Dariel Ebanks and Hall of Famer Charles ‘Killa’ Whittaker.
Hurlston is already looking ahead so it’s back to the gym to keep improving.
“Prepare for the next challenge,” he said. “I want to extend a huge thank you to my sponsors, Elite Marble & Granite and Oasis Pool and Spa, for their unwavering support through getting my licence, assisting with my first camp, and making this fight possible.
“I’m excited to represent them and the Cayman Islands as I work my way to the top. I’m grateful to everyone who supports me, both [in the UK and] back home.”
