Newton ready to beat down door to state and national arena

By James Kleeman

Mar 8, 2022

Full focus: Tom Newton goes at the punching bag. Photo by Brenden Paddock

The sky’s the limit for Benalla boxer Tom Newton, who is gearing up for national selection trials in Melbourne next week.

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After missing out at Commonwealth Games selection trials in late February, Newton was invited to compete at state squad trials after a valiant showing against Victorian champion Charles Joma in the 71kg weight class, which was eventually decided on a split decision.

Benalla boxing stalwart Len Griffiths has mentored Newton through his rapid rise and says if last week’s fight is any indication, Newton’s on track to becoming a force to be reckoned with on the state and national stage in the years to come.

“He fought hard last weekend against the state champ for it to be decided on split decision,” Griffiths said.

“I got a call after the fight asking for him to come down for the state squad trials to fight in the welterweight class.”

For that, Newton has had to lose 3kg in a short space of time, consulting with a sports dietician at Monash University to make it happen in time for trials next week.

The 23-year-old has been honing his craft at LG Boxing, where Griffiths has been developing and working with boxers in Benalla and its surrounds for a number of years.

Ensign photographer Brenden Paddock caught Newton in his element at LG Boxing this week.