April 8—ST. LOUIS — Michael Drywater of Booyah Boxing defeated Devon Alexander by knockout in his debut at the Amateur Boxing Invitational on Saturday, April 6th.
Drywater was victorious in the second round of the fight. Drywater was the only boxer to achieve a knockout.
Elsewhere, Booyah's other fighters lost by decision. After a seven-hour drive and two-hour delay, Devaughn lost in points but was able to run the distance. Caleb Scraper also lost on points. After falling in the first round, Scraper was able to catch up in his next two rounds, but a slow start sealed his fate.
Booyah lost both boxers by split decision, which did not satisfy Booyah's coach, Melissa Drywater. Victor Duran and Jayrem Newcombe both lost their cases in split decisions by the judges.
“Victor's fighting was the best of the night, non-stop action as soon as each round began. He fought like a true Cherokee warrior, landing more clean power shots than his opponent. “I decided,” Drywater said. “He was launching a jab and creating angles with his footwork. The judges in St. Louis gave a split decision to native Christopher Vargas. When they announced the winner and the audience, they asked how they arrived at the decision. I really don't know.'' The boos started. ”
Overall, Bouya recorded one win, two losses on points, and two losses by split decision.
“Overall, we had a very good learning experience,” Drywater said. “I'm so proud of all the fighters. It takes courage to get in that ring and do what we do. As an American boxing official, I'm very proud of the judges. I truly believe I made the wrong decision with Jairem and Victor. In my book, they write, “Everyone is a winner.'' ”
Growth of booya
Over the past year, Booyah Boxing has grown into a place Drywater never expected. In the spring of 2023, he was the only boxer in Drywater that he was training and taking to events. That fighter is no longer part of the program, but he is now the fifth fighter to participate, with others currently preparing for their first fights.
“This is a huge accomplishment for me as a coach,” Drywater said. “Back then, I had one boxer, and now I have five boxers who have been training together for almost a year. It’s a joy to watch it go.”
Last summer, Drywater began holding camps for students, and with the help of so many people, they plan to do the same again this summer. Two camps will be held, one for ages 7 to 12 and one for ages 13 to 17. Camp dates have not yet been decided.
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