COURTNEY Chadwick, Warrington’s newest professional boxer, got his career in the paid ranks off to a solid start on Saturday night.

The 25-year-old former Phoenix Fire amateur topped the bill at Wigan’s DW Stadium and secured a points victory over Youssef Al Hamidi.

Chadwick’s Syrian-born opponent had only been stopped three times in a professional career that has spanned over 130 bouts, but Chadwick dazzled in the four-round contest.

His slick style and accurate punching impressed referee John Latham, scored every round in favour of the debutant as he took a 40-36 victory.

Despite not starting with a knockout win, Chadwick was happy with his night’s work.

"I couldn’t wait to get in there and when I did, the atmosphere was so special," he said.

“I think I did well. I knew the guy would be an awkward opponent.

“I’d watched him box a few times and he’s a tough fighter. He’s only been stopped three times in a long career so I knew it wouldn’t be straightforward.

“I think I stuck to the gameplan though so I think I did all I could. I just wanted to impress with it being my debut.

“I knew it would be hard to make a massive statement with who I was fighting, so I just focused on getting out there and showing my skills.”

After a break over Christmas, Chadwick is planning to be back in the ring in March.

Before that, he returns to his old amateur club to hand out trophies to fighters competing in Phoenix Fire’s annual Christmas Punch tournament tomorrow, Friday.

Callands’ Bayode Oluieye tops the bill at Eagle Sports and Social Club, defending his English lightweight belt against Stockbridge ABC’s Jake McCarthy.

The show gets underway at 7pm. Tickets are £10 on the door.