STROUD'S Max Mudway’s ambition to become the southern area champion in his first full year as a pro took another step forward on Saturday, with a unanimous victory over Islington’s Jordan Grannum at the Swindon Oasis, writes Johnny Grant.

Weighing in 11 stone 4lb at the light middleweight division, Mudway went on to produce a performance which was almost as impressive as his black camouflaged and tasselled shorts.

The enigmatic and highly popular 23 year-old made his way to the ring a roar of ‘oh Maximus Mudway’ (to the tune of the White Stripes), deafening the building as more than 200 Stroud fans packed out the arena.

Fighting out of Jon Pitman’s fight factory gym, Mudway (2-0-0) soon had his opponent against the ropes, something that would continue throughout the four round bout. His superior hand speed and excellent use of the jab saw him soon stand out as the more skilful fighter. Despite missing with a couple of uppercuts, Mudway continued to dominate the first round, rocking his opponent with a late left hook.

The second was very much of the same with his opponent struggling to cope with the former Maidenhill pupil's work rate, just avoiding an overhand right in the later stages of the round.

Another left-hook was the most telling punch in the third by this time however it was clear there was only going to be one man with his hand raised. Grannum to his credit did manage to rally late on in the fourth but by this time the damage had already been done. As the scores were read out it was a clear victory to the 23 year old having scored a 10-9 on each round.ending in a 40-36 win.

Trainer Ptman said: "Grannum is a tough opponent and Max controlled every round. The support was brilliant and we have a couple of options in the pipeline."

Mudway added: "I felt I was patient but maybe lunged in a bit to much, it's all things to learn from and I'm just going to trust the process and take whatever comes at me."