MICHAEL ‘Buller’ Pardoe was understandably pleased as punch to represent England for the first time in an international tournament against Ireland.

The 27-year-old, who represents the Droitwich Amateur Boxing Academy and has more than 150 fights under his belt, gave a superb account of himself in the light welterweight contest against David McLaughlin in front of a sell-out crowd at Aston Villa’s Holte Suite which included 35 of his own friends and family.

The judges narrowly scored the bout in favour of the Irishman in a split decision vote.

However, Pardoe won’t have too long to wait for revenge as he will be heading over the Irish Sea in early December for a re-match against the same opponent.

“It was a really close fight and I posted it on Facebook without the result and most people thought I had won,” he said.

“Nevertheless walking out into the packed hall and looking down at the England badge on my vest was a very proud moment and something I will always remember.”