Champion 'Amazing' Grace Hall thriving at Rileys gym

The training base, which is home to Nicola Hopewell, Ebanie Bridges and Bianca Johnson has unearthed another gem in the 25-year-old amateur.

And Grace says having such quality role models has helped her power towards titles in quick time.

The Sheffield Steelers' Sports Bar assistant manager has only been boxing for 18 months but has already been crowned a Yorkshire champion and won a National Development title.

She is planning on taking part in amateur Box Cup events in 2026, prior to eventually turning professional.

Then she will be able to follow the paths of IBO and Commonwealth flyweight champion Hopewell, former IBF bantamweight title holder Bridges and lightweight Johnson, who hopes to chalk up her fourth straight career victory at the Metrodome, Barnsley on Friday (21st.)

"They are role models," said Grace, formerly of Woodhouse, now living in Dinnington.

"I train with Bianca a few times a week; we go running in the morning and have strength sessions and body sparring.

"Nicola helped me get ready for the National Development, while Ebanie just started getting back into the gym (after maternity break.)"

Although Grace absorbs the lessons more experienced fighters provide, she has her own style.

"They say I am a pressure fighter, I'm all go, go, go - I don't give them breathing space. Rob Riley (gym boss) calls me a wrecking ball.

"We are working on eventually turning over, it is hard to find fighters in my weight category (54-57 kgs) and around my age.

"We will be working towards a few Box Cups and then make a decision."

Her trainer, Steve Dakin, has been proud of Grace's development in such a short time.

"I am as proud as punch as her coach and honestly believe that Grace is the real deal and set for a very bright future. We are looking forward to the next journey together."

Grace had a difficult childhood at times, including exclusion from Dinnington High.

She admits that she had a problem with alcohol, at times, too.

"She strongly needed a disciplined focus and structure in her life," Steve said.

"Grace was no stranger to competitive sport, having played football from a very young age (including for Sheffield Wednesday U16s and Wickersley) and craved a more holistic competitive sport where she could utilise and have an outlet to vent her frustrations in a controlled, safe environment.

"Stepping into a boxing gym was just what the doctor ordered; she immediately felt at home.

"She’s dedicated herself to training intensively, running every day, and attending Riley’s Boxing Gym five or six times a week.

"It is an absolute pleasure to work with Grace, she is the most dedicated person I've ever worked with, her work ethic and attitude towards training is second to none," said Steve.

"I'm also proud to call her my friend. Although training is at times very hard, we do laugh a lot. This girl has so much unharvested talent, we are striving to bring out the very best of 'Amazing Grace' Hall.