Rikki Beale's first outing under White Collar Boxing rules ended with a majority decision points loss at the hands of local boy Ian Johnson.

There were no complaints from the Team Bulldog corner as Beale registered a one paced performance that lacked the sharpness and style of his usual work.

At no time were either man in any kind of trouble and you have to believe that the fight was there for the taking - but Beale did not step up to take it.

Manager Carl Sams commented: "This kind of fight is one that we would take for any of our up and coming fighters. It is good experience and has no real impact on their Kickboxing careers. Rikki is scheduled for the IKF Southern Area Title shot against Rob Ellick in April and that is still on course as this was a Boxing contest. Rikki wants to stay busy and could even be out again next week (currently in negotiation) under Boxing rules again. It is better that he shakes off the lethargy in contests of this nature rather than take that to the championship ring and lose out"

We shall see. Rob Ellick is a great talent and Beale will have to be sharper if he wants that belt!