There’s a new kid on the regional professional boxing block in the shape of Twenty20 Promotions, led by Jordan Sheldrake and backed by Ric Bennett of Wakefield’s Trinity Boxing Club, working with Wayne Woods from Leeds. The new promotion has just held its first show at Barnsley Metrodome, themed as Genesis. Over 700 in attendance enjoyed nine entertaining bouts featuring boxers from across Yorkshire.

Bennett, 43, has become well-known on the Yorkshire boxing scene, having set up Trinity Boxing Club eight years ago. “Boxing had been a bit of a sideline for me,” said Bennett. “I’d played football at quite a high level with Huddersfield Town and in Australia. I’d boxed in my teens but then concentrated on football until about 30.”

“I came up with the name Twenty20 because, owing to lockdown, 2020 turned out to be the year that more title belts were contested in our area, as so many fights were held without an audience at premises in South Kirkby, enabling us to keep the sport going. Additionally, the concept of 20/20 vision was incorporated into the name. Wayne, Jordan and I are a partnership, and we each bring something to the table.”

Wakefield professional boxers Keanan Holford and Andrea Cikalleshi won their ninth and fifth paid bouts, respectively, on the Barnsley show. “Keanan took on Kasey Bradnum over four rounds in his first match for seven months,” explained Bennett. “This was an impressive performance with Keanan calm, disciplined, switched on, and highly professional throughout to take a deserved points win.” Holford was “happy to have dominated the fight and pleased that my corner was happy because I followed instructions throughout the bout.”

“Andrea Cikalleshi showed just what boxing should be about in what was his career-best performance to date as he took things to another level, defeating Glasgow’s Donnie MacInnes over six rounds. It’s hard to put into words just how dominant Andrea was. The only reason this fight didn’t get stopped was because Donnie is one hard man — the referee was looking to jump in on several occasions.” The always humble Cikalleshi was happy to have “boxed at a good pace, landing effective combinations. I know I can do even better, and I have a list of things to work on to become a better fighter. It’s about gaining experience and adapting to the different styles of various opponents.

I’m working towards a shot at an area title hopefully later in 2026.” “Keanan will box on our April show in what will hopefully be his last four-rounder as he builds momentum for longer fights. With Andrea, we’re simply waiting for the phone to ring — got gumshield, will travel. Right fight, right money, get ready."

“These shows rely on sponsorship. We appreciate the generosity of Yorkshire Timber Gates, Clark's Surfacing, AphScience, Filtered Beauty and Aesthetics, WFD Sweets, HWRS Waste Removal, BAF Motorsport, and Team Phenom Academy. Our first show represents a huge milestone for Wakefield boxing. The fans created an exhilarating atmosphere with good-natured but boisterous support for the home boxers. The feedback’s been fantastic. Thanks to Ben Bingham, Luke Briggs and Mike Jackson for their support. Wayne and I are enjoying working with our promoter, Jordan Sheldrake, in this exciting new venture,” concluded Bennett.

Bradford’s Armani Francis also won his professional debut on Genesis and Wakefield professionals. Doncaster’s Lewis Booth, York’s Joel Granger and Rotherham’s Burhan Nishat and Kash Ali were also winners, along with main event star and former five-time amateur Yorkshire champion the highly rated James Precious.

The second Twenty20 Promotions show is scheduled at the same Barnsley venue on 24th April.