Jack Bateson fired up after losing to top German in Chemistry Cup
Sunday 28 August 2016 08:41, UK
Three defeats in a row is a blow on his quest to be at Rio this summer, but boxer Jack Bateson is in no mood for sulking.
The 21-year-old from Leeds has been in Halle this week for the famous Chemistry Cup, but was drawn against the highly-rated Hamza Touba, a five-time German champion fighting in front of his home fans.
Bateson had been looking for a turnaround in fortunes after losing in Hungary and Bulgaria in the last five weeks, but it wasn't to be with a unanimous decision for his 24-year-old opponent.
Here are Jack's thoughts on the bout and the task he faces on reaching the Olympics......
I'm not one to usually do this but I've had some terrible luck to start such an important year. On Wednesday, I boxed the German Hamza Touba in Germany and knew I was always going to be up against it when I heard the draw.
I boxed great and properly tucked it to him for the full fight. I left it all in the ring and couldn't have done any more.
It was a big ask to get a decision against one of their top boys but you have to stay positive and it still hurts when your hand isn't raised because of a bad hometown decision.
I dedicate my life to the sport and all you can ask for is a fair crack. You can work as hard as you want but luck is one thing that you can't control and unfortunately you need a bit these days in boxing.
It won't keep a good man down and I'll stay positive and look forward to the next fight.
I'm learning and improving every day and this is all part of the journey on the way to better days.
Thank you to everyone for the continued support and to my team at home for all the work they put in with me behind closed doors.
The Road to Rio still continues. I don't care how I get there but I know once I get my shot, I'll make it for Britain.
WHAT'S COMING UP FOR OUR SCHOLARS
MARCH 11-15: Elise Christie, World Championships, Seoul
March 7-13: Jack Bateson, Chemistry Cup, Germany
MARCH 12/13: Quillan Isidore, British BMX Round 1&2, Manchester
