Lewis Richardson won gold for England at Boxam tournament

The 26-year-old middleweight also scooped the best boxer of the tournament accolade, after making a triumphant comeback following a year out of action.

Richardson beat Welsh fighter Orlando Holley-Sotomi on a unanimous decision to scoop gold and the 2022 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist was glad to be back in action.

He said: “It was great to be back winning and winning the best boxer of the tournament award too was the icing on the cake really.

“By the time I boxed, I think it was 366 days since I was last in the ring.

“I had a few things going on – injuries, university studies, a little bit of politics within world federation amateur boxing - not within GB - which have limited my options to box, this year.

“I’m always very, very proud to represent my country.

“When you’re on top of the podium hearing your National Anthem, it’s something I’ll never, ever tire of.

"Whatever level I’m doing it at, whether it’s amateur or professional, I’m always very proud to do so.”

Richardson beat Didac Gomez of Spain in his first bout in Alicante and then saw off Italy’s Remo Salvati, both on split decisions, before beating Holley-Sotomi to scoop gold.

“The first fight for me felt a little bit like I was getting the ring rust off,” said the former Thomas Lord Audley School pupil.

“It was about controlling those pre-fight nerves and emotions.

“I actually lost the first round against him so I was very happy to come back as I did and get the victory.

“I felt as though as the competition went on, my performances got stronger and stronger.

“The fight against the Italian was another split decision but I felt it was a bit more comfortable than the first fight.

“The final was unanimous and I won quite clearly in that one, so I just felt my performances got better and better throughout.

“You prepare as much as you can in the gym and get good quality sparring as part of GB Boxing but nothing replicates actually being in the ring, in a competitive environment.”

Prior to his triumphant return, Richardson’s last outing was at the Tammer in Finland in November 2022, where he won gold and was also named best technical boxer.

He added: “I really feel like we’re back where we left off.

“It’s a proud moment, because there are Olympic medallists coming to every tournament.

“There were about three or four at this tournament, so to be chosen as the best boxer is a very proud moment.

“It was nice to also have my family out there – they don’t usually get to travel but it was nice to celebrate with them there.”

Richardson has thanked his sponsors Datum Group Ltd, Shaun Hanney Ltd Scaffolding & Construction, Maldon Demolition & Jak Finch Hair for their continued support.